The Lost Art of Love Letters: How A Non-Profit Is Reviving the Magic of Snail Mail
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.—There was a time when words traveled slowly— sealed with intention—carried from one heart to another.
And now that time has come again in Santa Barbara.
Sondra Weiss started a campaign a decade ago to help ignite more caring in the world.
She calls it "The Lost Art of Love Letters."
“I love snail mail because you really slow down and really think about what's in your heart, and then have a moment to express it to write it and add in whimsical drawings if you want. We live in such a rush-rush world, and perhaps someone will send a text or something to have an appreciation, but this shows that someone took their time,” said Weiss.
She partners up with different organizations and schools to write appreciation letters for non-profits ranging from environmental organizations to mental health advocacy organizations.
“A lot of times they're learning about the ocean for the first time or learning about Surfrider and what they're doing, and possibly they might volunteer with these organizations in the future,” said “The Lost Art of Love Letters” Founder.
Last week high school students from Cate School took a trip to the Environmental Defense Center in Santa Barbara, writing punny thank you letters to the donors of the non profit.
“Just getting a handwritten card, putting that emotion into it, and spending the time, making a drawing, thinking of a funny joke, is really like the cherry on top,” said High School Student Betsy Peters.
They also met with EDC staff, getting an inside look at the work they do.
“We learned a lot about their law program and the things that they try and help with— how they take on environmental cases and they don't really look at the money that they're going to get from it. They look more like the impact they'll make,” said High School Student Lotte Nicholas.
“I just have some shells, and it just says thank you. It's been really fun. It's very meditative and calming to sketch. You're sending some love and some appreciation,” said High School Student Rose Schreier.
This week The Lost Art of Love Letters will be collaborating with the Isla Vista Recreation and Parks District for Black History Month.
