Phone Companions matches older adults with trained volunteers for regular, one-on-one phone conversations. Each match is based on shared interests and availability, helping build true friendships over time.
We’ll give you a friendly call to learn more about your interests and preferences.
We’ll pair you with a volunteer based on availability, location, and shared interests.
You and your companion choose a schedule that works — most people chat once a week.
You must be 62 or older and live in Minnesota or Western Wisconsin.
This program is designed for older adults seeking meaningful phone-based companionship.
Note: This program is not suited for individuals with dementia, as our volunteers are not trained in dementia care.
We’ll complete a friendly phone assessment to learn more about you.
The pairing process can take up to a month depending on volunteer availability.
Once matched, you’ll receive a call and email with your companion’s name, city, and phone number.
Your companion (a background-checked volunteer) will also get your name, number, and brief info about you.
They’ll call within a week to introduce themselves. You’ll decide together when and how often to chat.
Most companions talk once a week.
If a week goes by without a call, please contact us at 612-746-0737.
Possibly — but please contact us first at 612-746-0737 before arranging any in-person meetings.
Yes! If you know someone 62+ who would benefit from the program, you can recommend them using our form.
Email us at companions@friendsco.org or call (612) 746-0737.
I’m an older adult and want to be paired with a volunteer.
I know someone 62+ who would enjoy receiving calls from a volunteer.
If you are a talker and connecting one-to-one with an older adult for ongoing meaningful phone friendship appeals to you, let us pair you with someone through Phone Companions.
