Build a friendship from the comfort of your home
Phone Companions pairs older adults with background-checked, trained volunteers for meaningful one-on-one phone conversations. Together, you and your companion can decide on a schedule that works best for you, with most choosing to connect weekly.
How It Works
Here's what to expect when you sign up:
Phone Assessment
We’ll give you a friendly call to learn more about your interests and preferences.
Matching Process
We’ll pair you with a volunteer based on availability, location, and shared interests.
Weekly Calls
You and your companion choose a schedule that works — most people chat once a week.
All volunteers are background-checked and trained by Friends & Co staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Click a question below to read the answer.
Who can sign up for Phone Companions?
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.
What happens after I sign up?
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.
What if I don’t hear from my companion?
If a week goes by without a call, please contact us at 612-746-0737.
Can I meet my companion in person?
Possibly – you and your companion must go through an approval process first through Friends & Co.
Can I recommend someone else?
Yes! If you know someone 62+ who would benefit from the program, you can recommend them using our form.
Still have questions?
Email us at companions@friendsco.org or call (612) 746-0737.
Get Started
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.
Be a Phone Companion
If being matched with an older adult for meaningful one-to-one friendship appeals to you, let us pair you with someone through Phone Companions.