When some students returned for classes last fall at Dawson Elementary School, along with their new notebooks, pencils and paper, some also received new pen pals. For the past eight months, about 50 fourth and fifth graders have traded letters with students, faculty and staff at St. Edward's University through "Operation Pen Pal." Now they finally will have the chance to meet one another.



"Operation Pen Pal" is a project of the Community Mentor Program (CMP), which is designed to promote community service, career exploration, academic achievement and student retention for both St. Edward's University students and more than 500 Austin Independent School District (AISD) elementary school children. The CMP also has a partnership with Legal Aid of Central Texas. St. Edward's students serve as mentors and tutors in a classroom setting and work as Legal Aid assistants supporting the legal staff in providing effective and efficient services. Students perform an average of 17 service hours per week and 450 service hours per academic year, for which they receive an educational stipend.



CMP prides itself in providing a team and family atmosphere for its members. Service in this program integrates head and heart, action and reflection. Children discover their own value and potential, while St. Edward's students develop meaningful relationships, explore career options and grow in their leadership skills and commitment to community service.

• Who: 4th and 5th graders and their St. Edward's Pen Pals
• What: "Operation Pen Pal" meet-and-greet
• When: Noon, Friday, April 16 (elementary students will arrive at St. Edward's around 10:45 a.m. for a short campus tour, followed by lunch at 11 a.m.)
• Where: St. Edward's University Recreation and Convocation Center

For a campus map, go to: http://www.stedwards.edu/map/campmap.htm