FAQs

Any additional questions?

What is Shine for You?
Shine for You is a youth-led nonprofit that delivers handwritten letters and artwork to hospital patients of all ages. We believe in the healing power of human connection, and our mission is to remind people who are hospitalized that they are seen, loved, and never alone. Each letter and piece of art is created with heart by young volunteers who simply want to brighten someone’s day.

How did Shine for You start?
It began with a few handwritten letters, created during a time when visiting hospitals wasn’t possible. We realized that even when we couldn’t be physically present, we could still reach people emotionally. What started as a small act of kindness became something bigger as more youth joined in. Shine for You grew from the belief that words and art can bring light to even the hardest days.

What is the goal of the project?
Our goal is to bring emotional comfort and connection to children, teens, adults, and seniors in hospitals. Through handwritten letters and meaningful artwork, we hope to remind people they matter, they are not forgotten, and someone is thinking of them.

Who runs the program?
Shine for You is youth-led, meaning the organization is created, managed, and driven by passionate teens who believe in the power of small acts of kindness. We are supported by adult advisors when needed, but our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.

What’s your mission statement?
Our mission is to bring warmth, comfort, and connection to people of all ages in hospitals through handwritten letters and meaningful artwork. We aim to remind each person that they are seen, valued, and not alone.

Is Shine for You sponsored?
We are not currently sponsored by any large organizations. All of our support comes from volunteers, donations, and small community fundraisers. We hope to partner with like-minded organizations in the future to grow our reach.

What are the guidelines for writing letters and making art?
We encourage kindness, creativity, and respect. Letters and art should be uplifting, inclusive, and age-appropriate. Please avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion, and refrain from any inappropriate language or imagery.

How are senior homes and hospitals chosen?
We partner with hospitals, care centers, and senior homes that express a need for emotional support services. We also take suggestions from volunteers and community members to connect with new locations that align with our mission.

Will the seniors and people in hospitals write back?
In most cases, no. While some hospitals and homes may share general feedback or stories, Shine for You is about giving without expecting anything in return. Our goal is to simply brighten someone's day.

Is this an ongoing opportunity?
Yes! We are always accepting new volunteers and submissions. Whether you send one letter or ten, you are helping us shine for someone in need.

How is my info used?
We only collect the information needed to organize submissions, confirm volunteer hours, and share project updates. We never sell or share your information with anyone outside the organization.

How and when will I be contacted?
Once you sign up, you’ll receive a welcome email with next steps. We may reach out by email or Instagram DM if we have a question or update related to your submissions or volunteer hours.

How can I sign up?
Visit the "Get Involved" page on our website and fill out the volunteer sign-up form. You can also send us a message on the “Contact” page.

How are my letters/artwork given out?
Our team reviews and organizes submissions, then packages them for delivery to partnered hospitals and senior homes. We coordinate with staff at each location to ensure everything is distributed safely and respectfully.

What does the time commitment look like?
You can participate as often as you like! Some volunteers write once a month, others send letters weekly. Whether you have 10 minutes or a few hours, every note or drawing makes a difference.