Friendly Voices, a nonprofit that provides human connections for older adults through regular phone calls, is expected to join forces with Avenidas this month, according to a press release. Approved by both organizations, the merger is pending state approval.
Since its inception in 2020, Friendly Voices has supported more than 380 older adults, primarily in the Bay Area. Dozens of volunteers each week chat with their “phone buddies,” enriching their lives with precious human connection.
“From a simple idea, a friendly phone call, we’ve built something deeply human and enduring,” said Friendly Voices founder Laura Steuer. “Joining forces with Avenidas is the fulfillment of our vision, and I couldn’t be more hopeful about what’s ahead.”
Avenidas has been referring clients to Friendly Voices since 2020. Avenidas President and CEO Kristina Lugo called Friendly Voices “a powerful service rooted in compassion, consistency, and care.”
For information on becoming a phone buddy or to refer an older adult to this service, visit friendlyvoices.org. For more on Avenidas and its services and volunteer opportunities, call (650) 289-5499 or visit avenidas.org.
