Richmond Peace and Pals

Letters Against Isolation (LAI) is a nonprofit organization that combats loneliness among seniors by sending them friendly, handwritten letters and cards. 💌

It was founded in 2020 by two sisters, Saphira and Shreya Luria, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many older adults were feeling especially isolated due to lockdowns. The program grew quickly and now serves thousands of seniors living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and senior centers across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.

Here’s how it works:

• Volunteers sign up online and can choose which senior communities to write to.
• They write uplifting, positive letters — no heavy topics, politics, or religion — just friendly notes to brighten someone’s day.
• Volunteers then mail their letters to participating facilities, which distribute them to residents.

Join us each month as we dive into a different banned or challenged book and explore the stories that have sparked conversation, controversy, and change.

You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, and your own notes or thoughts to share! We’ll have guided discussion questions ready, but open conversation is always encouraged.

✨ Don’t worry if you haven’t finished the book — come for the discussion, stay for the community.

📖 December’s Pick: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Let’s celebrate the freedom to read and connect over powerful stories that have stood the test of time.

Join us each month as we dive into a different banned or challenged book and explore the stories that have sparked conversation, controversy, and change.

You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, and your own notes or thoughts to share! We’ll have guided discussion questions ready, but open conversation is always encouraged.

✨ Don’t worry if you haven’t finished the book — come for the discussion, stay for the community.

📖 February: The Kite Runner

Let’s celebrate the freedom to read and connect over powerful stories that have stood the test of time.

Join us each month as we dive into a different banned or challenged book and explore the stories that have sparked conversation, controversy, and change.

You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, and your own notes or thoughts to share! We’ll have guided discussion questions ready, but open conversation is always encouraged.

✨ Don’t worry if you haven’t finished the book — come for the discussion, stay for the community.

March 2026: 1984