A good knowledge of English is fundamental. Furthermore, the person corresponding with an inmate on death row must have a well-balanced character, patience, persistency and understanding. Finally, most importantly, the pen-pal needs to be aware that this specific friendship, in 99% of the cases, is inevitably limited in time, as executions are carried out relentlessly.
They hear from other inmates about lifespark. Then they write a letter to our penpal coordinator, briefly introducing themselves. Our coordinator advises them that she has got their letter and that they've been put on our list. The inmates have to wait a few months until they get a penpal - first come, first served.
It is possible to order books or newspapers to be forwarded directly by the bookshop to the prison. Also, you could credit his/her account through the Inmate Trust Fund with an amount you consider reasonable to allow him/her to buy specific items from the prison commissary shop (e.g. stamps, soap, soft drinks, fan, typewriter, other). Last but not least, it is always possible to meet your pen-friend on death row if you apply for a visit permission.