I always thought that some of Fontsmith's typefaces, like FS Albert or FS Ingrid, were very friendly...

Or you could try FF Speak or FF Cocon...

FF Duper might be nice.

choose an open face (a and e with big counters, "mouth" wide open) from the Venetian, Garaldes or Humanist, not too light, not too much stroke contrast, maybe something slab or sturdy like Sauna will look more informal, also round, simplified forms (curved crossbar of e, one storey a etc) like in Speak (good idea) or Bree are possible, but rather not geometric.
http://www.fontshop.com/fontlist/genres/soft_rounded_sans/
(scroll down)

I would not go for something too soft like Cocoon or hand-made, since that possibly will look worn-out too soon.

How about Bryant or Omnes?

wow! thanx for the response guys, totally appreciate it!

ive actually come across a really good typeface: ITC Serif Gothic BT , which seems to work really well. i love the serifs and the overall rounded form and feel like it has a nice arabic flavor which is exactly what im looking for, in addition to being friendly of course!

however im not too sure about using vag rounded as body text at 10pt with 12 pt leading anymore. since the newsletter is going to be distributed as a pdf i just dont think that font is legible. what do u all say? i might have a go at some of the typefaces everyone suggested in here. i need to find a suitable headline typeface and body text.

all the recommended typefaces are great but they are soooooo expensive to purchase :S

If you want a free font, maybe take a look at Jos Buivengas typefaces on myfonts

thanx kupfers. what point size is suitable for screen reading? i know it depends on the typeface so assuming i stick with vag rounded as its one that has the look im after.