Corresponding with Recipients
Identity Release and Direct Contact
All correspondence between donor families and recipients is anonymous until/unless one decides that they would like to share identifying or contact information. In our experience, the vast majority of direct contact between donor families and recipients is positive and fulfilling. Though potential problems are rare, we want to ensure that everyone involved has considered the possible benefits and concerns. Please review these considerations before signing your release form, and reach out to us if you would like to discuss anything in greater detail.
Things to Consider
- Sharing identifying information in your letter to a recipient (i.e. names, where you live, work, or other identifying details) may lead to the discovery of your identity using social media, an internet search, or other means.
- Sharing contact information can simplify the process of communication between donor families and recipients. There is an opportunity to learn more about the other party in a personal and direct way, which may or may not include meeting in person.
- Donor families and recipients may find that differences in background, values, and beliefs can present a challenge. Donor families and recipients often have ideas about one another prior to meeting in person. Sometimes these ideas are not the reality, and this can lead to disappointment and hurt feelings.
- Making the decision to share contact information and communicate directly is a personal choice. It is also the recipient’s choice whether or not to reach out, and we urge you to be prepared for either outcome. A recipient may not be ready to communicate directly, now or ever. Many families have meaningful relationships with recipients through written correspondence, and you may continue to send and receive letters via Donor Alliance for as long as that is desired by either party.
- Other organizations involved in facilitating your loved one’s donation may limit what information can be shared, and identifying/contact information may be redacted according to their policies when received.
You are welcome to include your contact information in your letter to a recipient once you have read and signed the Authorization to Release Donor Family Identity. You may send your signed form to us by:
- Email: aftercare@donoralliance.org
- Mail: Donor Alliance, Attn: Aftercare, 200 Spruce St., Suite 200, Denver, CO 80230
- Upload along with a letter for the recipient(s) via our website here.