Many senior adults, particularly those in senior living communities, have been isolated due to COVID-19. Through local partnerships, Douglas County Libraries had the means and opportunity to provide vulnerable citizens in those communities with stimulating materials and meaningful one-on-one connections through pen pal-style letters written by teen volunteers. Communities were chosen based on their ability to quarantine materials before distribution to residents and the opportunity for strengthening relationships.

DCL partnered with the City of Lone Tree and three local senior living communities to deliver stimulating materials and social connections during the pandemic. Lone Tree’s teen court coordinator enlisted teen volunteers to write letters, DCL staff wrapped and assembled care bags and managed Playaway delivery and a Lone Tree city employee helped deliver materials to each community. Seniors’ response cards and letters for the teens were picked up weekly. Valuable connections and memories were created at all touchpoints.

DCL delivered 465 care packs to about 500 total residents in three senior living communities, and picked up 40 responses to the teens’ letters. Feedback received includes:

• “I love ALL the things I got from the Douglas County library system! I will answer the teen’s letter as I think that is so cool.” — Senior community resident
• “We are overwhelmed. I know our residents are excited about the partnership with DCL. It is one of the services our residents truly miss during ‘safe at home.’” — Vi at Highlands Ranch staffer