Rosie Paulik grew up receiving letters from her father, Buz Ecker, every ten days. The notes arrived for milestones, summer camps, and first days at university.
Each letter recorded small details from her dad’s life, from everyday thoughts to the sandwich he was eating. Over 30 years, she collected 3,500 letters.
The letters often read like journals, capturing daily moments, reflections, and occasional jokes. Paulik described them as warm reminders of care and guidance.
Now, Paulik has started the Dad Letter Project to share her father’s gift. The initiative connects fathers with people seeking encouragement or companionship.
“Sometimes, you just need a dad to remind you that you’re doing great, to offer advice, or to make you laugh,” the project’s website said.
Paulik explained to ABC News that many people receive nothing in the mail besides bills. The letters provide authentic, handwritten messages of support.
The project has grown so popular that Ecker sometimes writes three or four letters each day. High demand led Paulik to invite other fathers to participate.
Recipients request letters based on personal events, which may be happy, sad, or reflective. The letters are tailored to their experiences.
Ecker said he addresses the problems and questions people share with him. He feels honored to write for them and values their trust.
The project has extended Ecker’s love of writing and mentorship into a meaningful activity during his retirement. It also nurtures community through personal connection.
Paulik’s two-year-old son, Andrew, now also receives letters, continuing the family tradition. The project bridges generations and spreads encouragement beyond their household.
The Dad Letter Project demonstrates the power of a simple act of caring. It offers human connection in a world where personal messages are rare.
The initiative has received media attention for its originality and impact. Paulik hopes it inspires more fathers to participate and support people through letters.
Ecker is currently spending the summer in Michigan, continuing to write daily letters and collaborating with other fathers to reach more people.
The project highlights how small, thoughtful gestures can positively affect mental and emotional well-being. Each letter provides reassurance and attention to the reader.
By transforming a family tradition into a public service, Paulik and Ecker show that personal letters can be more than words on paper. They can be a lifeline.
Source: ABC NEWS
