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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.