Celebrating 1 Year of Friendship with Friends on Wheels
About a year ago, we announced the start of our Friends on Wheels Program, where volunteers get matched with one of our clients for a weekly social visit.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
Research shows that social connection is vital for emotional and physical well-being, especially for older adults. Regular socialization can reduce feelings of loneliness, lower the risk of depression, and even improve cognitive function. For homebound individuals, friendly visits provide meaningful engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Beyond this, our Friends on Wheels volunteers also let staff know when a client has a need or a concern. We’ve been able to assist several clients with resources and referrals because our volunteers are trained to listen, and reach out to staff when a need arises.
By connecting Friends on Wheels volunteers with our Meals on Wheels clients, this program not only combats isolation, but also strengthens community ties—one visit at a time.
SO, HOW’S IT GOING?
To date, we have onboarded 24 clients and 15 volunteers into the program.
Volunteers have provided about 220 hours of visit time, over the course of about 125 visits.
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
Continue to recruit volunteers.
Make more matches between volunteers and clients.
Assess volunteer and client satisfaction.
WHAT DO VOLUNTEERS AND CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FRIENDS ON WHEELS?
“She (client) loves reminiscing about her memories from her past, which I truly enjoy listening to. She is an amazing woman whom I enjoy spending my time with, and she says that she feels the same way. She is an amazing blessing in my life.” - Volunteer, T.
“She (client) wants to play Uno on the patio next time I visit.” - Volunteer, S.
“I really love my visits from (volunteer)! It’s so nice to have someone who comes to see me, who isn’t here because it’s their job. She’s just here to see me!” - Client, B.
“He (client) really just wants someone to listen, and I can do that.” - Volunteer, S.
“I love my visits with (volunteer). She’s a very special one.” - Client, K.
Want to become part of Friends on Wheels?!
Contact Support Coordinator, Diane Cohn: diane@lovelandmealsonwheels.org or call 970-667-0311
We also welcome you to stop by our building and chat in person, if you’d rather.