The OI Pen Pal Program is an early intervention program and partnership between Opportunity at Iowa and Iowa grade schools from Cedar Rapids, Clinton, West Liberty, and Columbus Junction. University of Iowa faculty, staff and students write letters to and visit elementary-aged children throughout the academic year. Some of the goals of the Pen Pal Program include:

• providing grade school students with positive role models
• promoting positive self-esteem for grade school students
• increasing grade school students' motivation for academic success and interest in college
• developing and practicing writing skills of grade school students
• providing all program participants with a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity
• helping the University of Iowa become more responsive to the needs of the Pen Pal participant communities

Would you like to be a Pen Pal? If so, contact (319) 335-3555, or send an e-mail to oi-penpal@uiowa.edu.