What if a single handwritten letter could bridge decades, reignite an elder’s sense of purpose, and unlock a child’s hidden courage—all in one heartfelt exchange? In Yakima Valley, where our community’s heart beats strongest through shared stories and hard-earned wisdom, the Pages & Petals Young Writers Adventure makes this possible. Hosted by Peach Tree Retirement Center, Testify Swag, and Chey’s Dessert Delights, this event celebrates the timeless act of writing, connecting knowledgeable seniors with impressionable youth to remind us: the elders who built our homes, roads, and dreams still hold the power to shape tomorrow.
Adults sign up their child in advance via the Peach Tree website, after reviewing and agreeing to the guidelines. Youth then mail in their handwritten letters or stories, inspired by topics chosen by local seniors—who also prepare participation gifts, gather and plan the activities, read the submissions, collaborate on feedback, and select the Young Connection Keepers. This hands-on involvement keeps elders at the center, sharing insights from their lives while youth explore personal growth through pen and paper. Open to families across Yakima Valley—from Ellensburg’s open landscapes to Sunnyside’s sunny fields—it’s an inclusive way for locals to participate and forge lasting bonds.
The announcements will take place on Saturday, May 10th, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Peach Tree Retirement Center in Yakima, Washington. On that day, stop by for the reveal at our Mother’s Day Bazaar, turning the event into a community celebration of connection.
We create this because seniors in our valley often feel overlooked—their wisdom from years of dreaming and building fading away—while youth miss the grounding that comes from understanding our shared history. This disconnect leaves elders isolated and kids without the spark to face challenges or find their calling. By empowering seniors to lead in topic selection and winner choices, we show they can still make a profound impact, inspiring children to handwrite and engage with the stories that shaped Yakima.
Yet, this adventure stands out with its empowering simplicity: a bold invitation where elders revive their dreams through planning and collaboration, and a child’s tentative words evolve into something transformative.
As mailed entries pour in and seniors read them aloud, emotions rise: discussions deepen, collaborations peak, Young Connection Keepers emerge amid applause, and the group witnesses the joy of renewed purpose—elders rejoicing in their influence, youth gaining strength from history’s embrace.
And at the end? Families get a sneak peek into the broader celebration at the Pages & Petals Mother’s Day Bazaar, where these inspired stories shine amid local crafts and community warmth.
Yakima, this is how we do it—going big to honor our elders and inspire our youth. It’s a short pause that could spark a lifetime adventure, helping a child discover their essence or giving an elder the fulfillment of making a difference once more.
Have questions?
Visit our Pages & Petals Frequently Asked Questions page for details about the event, youth writing adventure, vendors, and more.