Touchmark: Touching Hearts – Jill Keller, Ph.D. and Stefan R. Sanford, MFA

Photo: Chef David Milbauer and Leland

In today’s technology-driven world, the idea of having a pen pal might seem old-fashioned; however, a special program between residents and staff at Touchmark at the Ranch in Prescott and students at Mingus Springs Charter School in Chino Valley has brought enrichment, connection, and joy to everyone involved.

On Wednesday, Touchmark hosted a delightful barbecue for students, residents, and staff at the Touchmark Retirement Center in Prescott to celebrate the end of the school year and the success of the Pen Pal Program. Last September, the Touchmark Pen Pal Program invited fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students from Mingus Springs Charter School to write biographies about themselves, including their interests, hobbies, families, and pets, and send them to Touchmark. Based on shared interests and backgrounds, a resident or staff member selected a student they felt drawn to and, within 10 days, wrote a letter to that student. The students then responded as part of a school writing assignment.

Photo: Annettee and Makaya

What began as a simple writing exercise quickly turned into an enriching — and in some cases life-changing — experience. Students found new friendships, while residents at Touchmark discovered renewed purpose and meaningful social connections.

Photo: Tara Spagnolo and Onan

Life Enrichment Director Tara Spagnolo shared that students, residents, and staff exchanged letters twice a month. The program became so rewarding that strong bonds developed, making the Pen Pal Program a tremendous success. In addition, students’ writing skills improved measurably, while residents formed lasting relationships with the children.

To celebrate the end of the school year, the students arrived by bus at Touchmark in the morning on Wednesday, May 6, where they gathered with their pen pals on the open patio. Residents and staff created beautiful tote bags decorated with each student’s name and interests. Every bag contained thoughtful, hand-selected gifts. A photo booth with picture strips was also available, giving students a fun keepsake to remember the special day.

Photo: Joe Brown and Clint

It was exciting to meet and speak with participants in the Pen Pal Program. Joe Brown, Executive Director of Touchmark and his pen pal student, Clint, bonded through letters in which Clint enjoyed hearing stories from a father of four boys. Since Clint has five sisters, the correspondence offered a unique connection and perspective. Wednesday’s visit gave the pair an opportunity to spend time together in person. Clint, a sixth grader, hopes the program will expand next fall to include seventh-grade students.

Tara Spagnolo and her pen pal, fourth grader Onan, bonded over family, cats, and camping. Touchmark resident and former teacher Annettee became pen pals with fourth grader Makaya, who loves dogs and reading books.

Photo: Executive Chef David Milbauer and Leland

Student Leland and Touchmark Executive Chef David Milbauer enjoyed writing letters about food and favorite recipes. Leland, who is 11 years old and will turn 12 in July, dreams of becoming a chef and already enjoys making hamburgers, soup, and bread at home.

Touchmark plans to continue the Pen Pal Program in the fall and hopes to expand participation to additional grade levels. In our technology-driven society, it is refreshing to see how Touchmark has transformed a traditional pen pal program into a meaningful and beautiful bonding experience for everyone involved.