Here is a nice touch from the Indiana Pacers and their Hype Crew. These on-court entertainers were enlisted to write letters to some local seniors for international “Cheer Up the Lonely” day. (see below)
Check out this article on LifeHack with 10 Reasons You Should Write More Handwritten Letters. It’s a great list showcasing why this is so effective. For seniors part of the value is receiving a note in a medium they cherish.
This time-tested and fading habit also has benefits for the authors.
Steve Toepfer from Kent State University studies “author benefits” – the perks you get from penning letters. Toepher says by making a habit of writing thoughtful letters of gratitude, “you’ll feel happier, you’ll feel more satisfied, and if you’re suffering from depressive symptoms, your symptoms will decrease.” This isn’t as strange as it sounds. Telling your friends how much you appreciate them helps you count your blessings and notice some of the beauty in your life. (from LifeHack).
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s mascot Rumble didn’t need a national hashtag day to inspire him to write notes. Rumble has taken to crafting hand-notes during the shutdown, writing letters to partners and fans showing his gratitude for their support.
(also see Rumble in our Blog You Owe Them Your Best)
This isn’t a completely new trend, we have a couple examples in the Water Cooler from the Charlotte Checkers and Gwinnett Stripers.
You've got mail! ✉️
Crosby, Penguins players send handwritten thank you notes to lucky season ticket holders: https://t.co/tcM6J6nEwF pic.twitter.com/PD4orzkdrx
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) July 16, 2020
