BRIDGING THE GAP THROUGH
FRIENDSHIP
Even in a welcoming senior living community surrounded by caring staff and fellow residents, older adults can still experience loneliness or a lack of meaningful personal connection. As we age, changes in health, independence, family circumstances, and familiar routines can make it more difficult to maintain relationships and develop new friendships.
For some seniors, family members live far away or are unable to visit regularly. Others may be adjusting to a new living environment, struggling to connect with fellow residents, or experiencing grief and loneliness. And sometimes, a senior simply enjoys having someone who looks forward to spending time with them.
Our Friends of the Family program helps bridge these gaps by providing consistent, one-on-one companionship. Through regular visits with the same volunteer, we create opportunities for genuine friendships to develop, offering seniors another caring presence in their lives and something meaningful to look forward to each week
Limited Family or Social Support
For seniors whose family lives far away, cannot visit regularly, or who have few opportunities for meaningful one-on-one companionship.
Difficulty Adjusting or Connecting
For seniors adjusting to a new living environment, struggling to form friendships, or experiencing loneliness, grief, or depression.
Simply Needing a Friend
For seniors who would enjoy a familiar face and something to look forward to each week. A companion doesn't replace family or professional care—just adds another caring presence in their life.
A MEANINGFUL
CONNECTION
Visits are relaxed and tailored to each senior's interests and abilities, whether that means conversation, games, walks, shared meals, on-site activities, Bible study, or simply enjoying one another's company.
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Weekly Visits: 1–1½ hours each week for six months
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Consistent Companion: The same volunteer each week to build a genuine friendship
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On-Site Visits: Held at the senior's care community
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Who We Serve: Seniors in assisted living, memory care, group homes, and other residential care communities
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Companionship Only: No caregiving, transportation, or errands
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All Faiths Welcome: Open to seniors of all backgrounds and beliefs
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Service Area: Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, and surrounding areas based on volunteer availability
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Cost: Free visits with a one-time $35 enrollment fee; donations appreciated to support program costs
THE HEART BEHIND EVERY
COMPANION
Our companions are Christian volunteers with a genuine heart for serving older adults and building meaningful, lasting friendships. We recognize that inviting someone new into your loved one's life is an important decision, which is why we take care in selecting, preparing, and matching each volunteer.
Every companion is thoughtfully matched with a senior based on compatibility, with the goal of creating a comfortable, trusting relationship that develops naturally over time.
Our hope is that each senior gains more than a friendly visitor—they gain a familiar face who genuinely looks forward to spending time with them, week after week.
Thoughtful Matching
Seniors are paired with a companion of the same gender, with consideration given to shared interests, personalities, backgrounds, and life experiences whenever possible.
Carefully Screened & Trained
Every volunteer completes an interview, screening process, reference checks, background check, and MyFriend's volunteer and companion training before being matched.
Committed to Consistency Companions commit to visiting the same senior each week for six months, allowing familiarity, trust, and genuine friendship to grow.
LET'S BE
FRIENDS!
Every meaningful friendship begins with a simple introduction! If you think your loved one could benefit from regular companionship, we'd love to learn more about them and help you explore whether our Friends of the Family program is a good fit. Here's how to get started:
Step 1: Start the Conversation
Complete our Program Interest Form to tell us a little about your loved one. This is simply an inquiry—not an enrollment or commitment. No visits will take place before we've had an opportunity to speak with you.
Step 2: Let's Talk
A member of our team will reach out to explain the program, learn more about your loved one's needs and personality, discuss availability, and answer any questions.
Step 3: Meet & Greet
We'll arrange an in-person visit to meet your loved one, along with a family member or designated contact person, to get acquainted and determine whether the program is a good fit.
Step 4: Make It Official
Once we're ready to move forward, you'll complete the enrollment form, and we'll begin the process of thoughtfully matching your loved one with a volunteer companion.