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Find a New Friend with The Ethel Pen Pals
Sign up for free, get matched with another Ethel, exchange email messages and form a new friendship.

Log in with your free AARP online account to get started.
Get Started
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What is The Ethel Pen Pals?

Remember having a pen pal as a kid? We do, and we loved it! That's why we're reviving this popular way to foster connection by launching an exciting pilot program for digital pen pals!

All we ask is that pen pals send at least one monthly email (or more!) to their new pen pal throughout the pilot running from November to January.

Please note that this is a pilot program, participation is limited, and we can't guarantee everyone will get a match.



How It Works

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Tell Us About You
Complete a short questionnaire about your interests, background and communication style.
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We Find You a Match
Our team will thoughtfully pair you with another Ethel based on common interests, life experiences and expectations. We'll connect you via email.
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Stay Motivated
We’ll email monthly writing prompts and fun conversation starters to keep the exchange going.


Start Your Pen Pal Adventure

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Free to Participate
Only requires a free AARP.org account. No membership needed.


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Flexible Involvement
Send as few or as many messages as you like—just one message per month is all we ask.
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Let Your Voice Be Heard
Help us make the program better by providing feedback.

Who Is It For?

  • Women in the Ethel community looking for deeper, more meaningful connections 
  • Women eager to step outside their comfort zone and meet someone new 
  • Anyone who loved the magic of having a pen pal as a child — and now wants to bring it back as an adult
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Why Participate?


We’ve heard from many in The Ethel community who want more than quick comments or likes online. They crave a real back-and-forth conversation — and the joy of connecting with someone who listens, shares and supports.


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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does this cost anything to participate?

    No, The Ethel Pen Pals pilot program is completely free. You only need an AARP.org account to sign up. There is no cost to creating an account, and an AARP membership is not required. Space is limited in this pilot test to ensure a quality experience for everyone. So, sign up early to secure your spot.

  • Do I need to be an AARP Member to participate?

    No, an AARP membership is not required. You only need an AARP.org account to sign up and creating an account is free. There is no cost to creating an account, and an AARP membership is not required.

  • What happens after I sign up?

    Click the "Find a Friend" button on this page to complete the participant questionnaire, and you’ll be matched with a pen pal by November 3, 2026. Pen Pal pairs will receive an introductory email from The Ethel from AARP (aarpethel@aarp.org). After that, pen pals are encouraged to email each other at least once per month.

    The Ethel From AARP will email participants once a month with writing prompts and fun conversation starters to keep the exchange going.

    At the end of the pilot, around January 31, 2026, we would love to gather your feedback and details on your experience through an emailed survey. Your participation would be much appreciated and help us shape the future of the program.

  • Can we exchange physical addresses?

    The Ethel From AARP will not share physical addresses and suggests that you do not share that information as part of this program. If you choose to share personal information, it's your responsibility.

  • What is a pilot program?

    This trial runs from November 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026. We’ll review feedback before deciding whether to continue the program. Participation is capped to ensure everyone has a high-quality experience.

  • Do I have to stop emailing my pen pal after three months?

    No, you may continue communicating with your pen pal after the pilot ends if you wish.

  • What can I talk about with my pen pal?

    Share stories, discuss hobbies, exchange cultural insights, or ask questions—enjoy open conversations. Participants should remain respectful and kind to their pen pals. You should avoid talking about financial circumstances or confidential personal situations that could lead to sharing sensitive personal details about yourself. If you choose to share personal info, it’s your responsibility. If any issues arise, please email aarpethel@aarp.org.

  • How are pen pal pairs matched?

    The Ethel From AARP will match your responses on the questionnaire about your interests, language, and communication preferences with those of another respondent.

  • Is my privacy protected?

    Your name and email will be shared with your matched pen pal. Your responses to the questionnaires and any other personal information shared as part of the matching and program follow-up process will remain confidential and private.

  • What should I do if my pen pal does not answer my emails?

    After two attempts at messaging your pen pal with no response, please contact us at aarpethel@aarp.org for assistance.

  • What should I do if I have technical trouble signing up?

    If you experience issues, please reach out to aarpethel@aarp.org for assistance.

    If you have trouble logging into your AARP.org account to sign up, please try the following steps:

    • Try resetting your password.
    • Clear your cookies and cache and ensure your browser is updated.
    • Close and reopen your browser and try logging in again.
    • If you continue to experience issues, email aarpethel@aarp.org for assistance.