Chat Pals: Overcoming Loneliness One Conversation at a Time

In addition to partnering with nearly 100 nonprofit organizations in Cuyahoga County, Greater Cleveland Volunteers also manages several of its own volunteer programs. Throughout this year, we’ll be taking a behind-the-scenes look at these programs and the positive change they’re creating in Northeast Ohio.

Many older adults face an escalating battle of loneliness. According to a 2025 AARP study, 40% of U.S. adults aged 45 and older report being lonely, an increase from 35% when the study was conducted in both 2010 and 2018. What’s more, the National Library of Medicine reports that approximately one-quarter of Americans aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. This loneliness epidemic can put the physical and mental health of older adults at risk.

In an effort to help curb these feelings of loneliness, Greater Cleveland Volunteers established Chat Pals. This phone or video-based (Facetime or Zoom) program matches a participant with a volunteer based on like-minded interests and experiences. Participants, who are aged 55 and older, receive a call from a background-checked volunteer on a weekly basis. The program is designed to provide greater connection to the community, emotional support, companionship, and improved mental and physical well-being. In fact, several real-life friendships have developed between participants and volunteers who were matched through Chat Pals.

Kirsten Riley, Partnership/Chat Pals Coordinator at GCV, shared her own perspective on the program and the impact she’s witnessed firsthand for both the participants and volunteers.

Q: What kind of value do you believe Chat Pals brings to the community?

Riley: The Chat Pals program brings meaningful value to older adults in the community by helping to reduce social isolation and loneliness, which are common challenges many seniors face. Regular phone calls provide connection, emotional support and a sense of belonging, while also giving older adults something to look forward to each week.

Volunteers may also notice changes in mood, health, or daily functioning, and they help connect older adults with additional support when needed. Lastly, as the program has evolved, it has helped build stronger intergenerational relationships while encouraging compassion and volunteerism throughout the community.

Q: How long does it typically take for a participant and volunteer to be matched?

Riley: On average, the process can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, depending on participant and volunteer availability, specific matching criteria, and the ratio of participants to volunteers at any given time.

Q: What are some of the biggest benefits for participants?

Riley: Consistent phone calls provide emotional support, companionship and a sense of routine by giving participants something to look forward to each week. The program also helps older adults feel valued, heard and more connected to their community. Additionally, some matches have developed such a meaningful connection that they exit the program and develop an in-person friendship.

Q: What about the volunteers? What sort of impact does getting involved in this program have on them?

Riley: Volunteers involved in a friendly caller’s program often experience a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment by making a meaningful difference in someone’s life through simple, consistent connection. Many volunteers build genuine friendships with participants and gain a greater understanding of the experiences and challenges older adults may face. The program also helps strengthen communication, empathy and active listening skills while fostering compassion and community involvement.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part for you working as the Chat Pals coordinator?