WHY WRITE?
With COVID-19 rising, more and more people find themselves isolated and lonely. Here at OUTreach we specifically worry about our youth who do not feel safe to be openly LGBTQIA+ in their homes. They have lost their ability to see their peers and be in affirming spaces. This can lead to increases in isolation, depression, and, in some cases, self-harm. We also worry about our affirming families, donors, and community members who have been stricken with COVID-19 or who have been isolating to stay safe. Receiving mail (that is not a bill) can brighten your day and lets you know someone is thinking of you. It is an offer of solidarity and support to someone who may be lacking in these trying times. And it isn’t just about the recipients – senders benefit from this project too! Writing can be very therapeutic, often even more so when you take away the pressure of writing to someone you know. When you send cards via us, you don’t have to worry about seeming too cheesy or not funny enough! It always feels good to spread kindness, and this is a very simple and accessible way to do just that.
CAN’T I JUST SEND CARDS DIRECTLY TO THE RECIPIENT?
Although this is open to all community members, Muncie OUTreach values the privacy and safety of our minor youth who will be a portion of the recipients. Therefore, we cannot give out the addresses, or other personal details, of our recipients as this could put them at risk. By sending all cards and letters to us, we mitigate the need for addresses to be shared. We hope you understand this necessary safety precaution and that it doesn’t stop you writing to our recipients.
WHAT TO SEND?
Cards!!!!! You are welcome to purchase cards or handmade cards (because they are the bomb!). This can be a fun project for groups, families, or in today’s world, a Zoom card making party! Holiday cards, birthday cards, thinking of you cards – all cards for any occasion are welcome, but we highly recommend cards of cheer and affirmation.
Letters! You are, of course, welcome to include a letter in any cards you send. Spontaneous letters can enhance feelings of connectedness to help combat feelings of isolation, especially in 2020. Letters can be as short or as long as you like, and you can talk about anything in them. We only ask that you keep them positive and light as the mission of the project is to support and uplift others. Share a story, tell them about your life, ask about theirs, or simply offer a message of hope – whatever you feel comfortable with. It may seem like a small thing, but your kind words might just make someone’s day!
Art! Don’t want to write or looking to make your card extra special? Draw a picture, break out your glitter, or include a lovely doodle! These extra touches can convey the special attention, love, and care you put into something just for the recipient. Just remember that it will have to fit in an envelope and thus be subject to the limitations set forth by the USPS. For more information, please see the link below.
Envelopes! Please include the envelope with store bought cards. If you have made your own card or piece of art, please supply an appropriately sized envelope. You may decorate the envelopes with flat stickers, washi tape, or drawings but please refrain from adorning the envelopes with puffy stickers, puffy paint, ribbons, string, or wax seals. If you are unsure, please consult USPS for appropriate materials for envelopes. Also, remember to leave room for addresses and stamps! We ask that you do not seal the envelopes or address the envelope to a specific person. Envelopes with the appropriate postage already applied are appreciated.
Not a crafty person or a letter writer but want to be involved? We are always in need of supplies for card writing and sending! We need things like:
- blank cards
- envelopes
- pens (e.g. colorful gel pens)/markers
- paper/stationary/scrapbook paper/cardstock
- stickers
- washi/decorative tape/tape/double-sided tape
- confetti
- And of course, STAMPS!
- Financial donations can be made at Paypal or Venmo
Once you have your cards and supplies ready, please follow the following steps:
- Place all cards with their unsealed envelopes inside of another envelope or box addressed to:
Muncie OUTreach
310 E Charles St.
Muncie, IN 47305
- Alternatively, you can place your cards and unsealed envelope in a dropbox at the same location.
- If you are unable to mail or drop off your cards, please contact us to see if other arrangements can be made. Additional pick up locations will be determined on a case by case basis.
NOTE: This is not a card or letter exchange. Letters, cards, and pieces of art are sent without the expectation of response from the recipient. Thank you for your understanding
Muncie OUTreach would like to thank The American Electric Power Foundation on Behalf of Indiana Michigan Power for their generous gift of $1000 to the Community Card Project:
