Dear Prospective Volunteer:

Here's an important project you can work on whenever you feel the impulse to make the world a better place.

Google search two words: "parenting" followed by the name of any large town or city in your state. I suggest you start with your county seat. Then send the letter shown below to any professionals in child-related fields who come up in your search.

Most of your letters will be ignored. Some recipients may take the advice given in the letter and read "Plain Talk" online and get the message, or at least think about it, but won't respond. Don't be discouraged. You will get a few positive responses. When you do, forward them to me at riak@nospank.net and I'll fill the requests.

You'll never know which e-mail you sent has resulted in changing a child's life for the better, or maybe saving a child's life.

Jordan Riak, Exec. Dir.
PTAVE

Your letter

[Place "Spanking=abuse" in the subject window of your e-mail]

I am a volunteer with Parents and Teachers Against Violence in Education, a nonprofit organization working to prevent child abuse. If you would like to receive a sample copy of our free booklet, "Plain Talk About Spanking," reply to me, and I'll forward your request to the PTAVE office. They'll fill your request immediately. If you like, you can read "Plain Talk" online at www.nospank.net/pt2008.htm .

[Your name], Volunteer