Friendship Bench DC is a way for people of all ages to confidentially share their story with an older person and know they will receive empathy, understanding, and respect.
Modeled on the Friendship Bench pioneered in Zimbabwe, Friendship Bench DC volunteers will participate in training to learn how to listen, express empathy, and refer people to higher levels of care if needed. Friendship Benches will be placed in safe community spaces throughout Washington, DC, and staffed by older volunteers trained to offer emotional support or simply a listening ear.
Your donation will help support the roll-out of Friendship Bench activities in select DC neighborhoods beginning in January 2024, including:
- Purchase of benches to be placed in pre-selected areas
- Transportation and food stipends for Friendship Bench DC volunteers
