CARIBOU, Maine — The Center for the Advancement of Rural Living, a nonprofit based in Caribou, is proud to introduce “Heart Ties”, a handwritten letter-exchange program that helps people form meaningful connections and reduce loneliness. This program encourages individuals to write and receive letters through the U.S. Postal Service. In an increasingly digital world, Heart Ties brings back a timeless and personal way of connecting, especially helpful for those feeling isolated.
Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has identified loneliness as a serious health threat. In his 2023 advisory, he wrote, “Loneliness is more than just a bad feeling. It is a public health epidemic that impacts mental, physical, and societal health.”
CARL’s Heart Ties offers a simple but powerful solution. A local idea with community roots, the program was launched by Sharon Berz. An AmeriCorps volunteer in the Vista program, Berz witnessed how deeply isolation was affecting people in her community. With the help of fellow volunteers, including Dana Jones, Bill Flagg and Debbie Cook, she developed the program to provide a personal and accessible way to reconnect.
Importantly, the idea for Heart Ties was birthed through a unique partnership between Limestone’s Age Friendly initiative, the Limestone United Methodist Church and Rising Hill, a licensed boarding home in Limestone. These three organizations came together with a shared vision to bring comfort, dignity and connection to those most at risk of being forgotten.
“Some of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had were through handwritten notes,” said Berz. “Letters don’t just carry words; they carry presence. When someone writes to you by hand, it reminds you that you matter.”
While CARL serves the residents of Aroostook County — lovingly known as “county folk” — Heart Ties is open to everyone. Whether you’re a senior in a rural town, a young adult in a city or just someone looking to connect, the program welcomes all.
“Someone in a Caribou nursing home might end up writing to a college student in California,” Berz explained. “This program isn’t just about fighting loneliness. It’s about building bridges.”
The need has never been greater. According to Dr. Murthy’s report, loneliness increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, and even early death. Studies show that being socially disconnected has health risks equal to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Bill Flagg, CARL’s board treasurer and founding member of CARL, says Heart Ties is one way communities can respond.
“In a world full of digital noise, a handwritten letter really stands out,” Flagg said. “You don’t need fancy technology or an internet connection — just a pen, some paper and a heart that wants to connect.”
Bringing back the personal touch, Heart Ties revives the art of slow, intentional communication. It encourages people to pause, reflect and connect in a more human way.
“Writing a letter helps us say things we might not say out loud,” said Flagg. “And receiving one reminds us we haven’t been forgotten. That’s a gift.”
Berz added, “When you open your mailbox and see your name in someone’s handwriting, it’s not just mail — it’s encouragement. It’s like receiving a hug.”
Everyone is welcome to participate in the program. Heart Ties is open to veterans, students, parents, seniors, people in recovery and anyone who just wants to feel more connected.
“There’s so much we can learn from each other,” Berz said. “This program creates a space where people can share, listen and grow. Sometimes, a single letter can make all the difference.One envelope at a time, we’re writing people back into each other’s lives.”
CARL encourages schools, churches, libraries, recovery homes and senior centers to help spread the word.
Heart Ties is free to join. Donations of stamps, stationery or volunteer time are welcome and appreciated. To sign up or learn more call Berz at 207-551-5672 or email beezsharon@gmail.com.
The Center for the Advancement of Rural Living is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Caribou. Since 2011, CARL has supported rural communities with innovative programs focused on recovery, transportation, veterans, housing and now, personal connection through Heart Ties. CARL is “Building Livability in Aroostook County”.
