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Friendly Connections is a free program that caters to the needs of homebound and isolated older adults residing in Fairfield County. Our comprehensive program includes group activities, supportive services, and in-home visits. Older adults connect with us through self-referrals, community partnerships, or referrals made by their family members. Once engaged, clients are carefully matched with dedicated volunteers or social work interns who serve as companions to foster socialization and alleviate feelings of loneliness. Clients also receive valuable information, resources, and guidance in navigating personal challenges such as grief, loss of independence, and maintaining relationships with family and friends. Our visits occur weekly, for one hour, and can be adjusted to accommodate client need.
Friendly Visitor Program
Volunteers are matched up with older and sometimes home-bound individuals for one-on-one weekly visits. The purpose of these visits is to provide companionship and support.
Volunteer Training
Friendly Connections relies heavily on volunteers interested in enriching the lives of others through discussion, conversation and companionship. All volunteers receive orientation, ongoing support and resources pertaining to their volunteer activity. Schedules are flexible.
Internship Information
Bachelor and master's-level student interns studying psychology, human services or a related social science field are an integral aspect of the Friendly Connections program. Interns receive supervision from a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) or a SIFI-certified Master of Social Work (MSW), and act as wrap-around service providers for older adults. Intern duties and responsibilities include managing a small weekly caseload of clients, including one-hour home visits; maintaining accurate client records and assessments; and connecting clients to services and community resources and maintaining collaborative relationships with other service providers.
For information about the Friendly Connections program and internship opportunities, contact Kelly Renwick at 203-324-3167.
Friendly Connections is funded in part by the federal Older Americans Act through the South Western Connecticut Agency on Aging (www.SWCAA.org). All older persons (60 or over) are eligible for services under the approved project.
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