John,

April is National Letter Writing Month, and this year, all of us at the Innocence Project want to encourage you to use the power of the written word to connect with those who need it most: the incarcerated.

While technology allows for instant communication, there's something uniquely personal about receiving a handwritten or typed letter. For those who are incarcerated — especially those who have been wrongly convicted — writing and receiving letters and building connections with people outside of prison can provide a sense of hope, validation, and encouragement.

Exchanging letters with incarcerated individuals can also offer a unique insight into the criminal legal system and be an opportunity to learn about different perspectives and life experiences for both the recipient and the sender.

We’ve laid out everything you need to know about finding someone to write to, things to consider when writing someone who is incarcerated, and what to write — take a moment to check it out. Writing your first letter is easy and rewarding.

Together, we can show those fighting for their freedom that they are seen, heard, and supported.

National Letter Writing Month is a perfect opportunity to make a difference. Let's raise awareness and offer hope, one letter at a time.

With gratitude,

— The Innocence Project Team