Friendly Caller Program: A Weekly Phone Connection
Every week across Reston, Vienna, Oakton, Great Falls, Herndon, Merrifield, and Dunn Loring, neighbors are getting to know each other, one phone call at a time.
What does the “Friendly Caller” Program look like? It’s simple. Just two people keeping in regular touch. That’s it! Last year, those relationships resulted in over 500 connections made by phone and in person. It’s not a service so much as a standing time for two people to look forward to catching up and swapping stories.
How the Weekly Call Actually Works
Connection partners are matched up and talk on a schedule that fits both of their routines — usually about once a week. There’s no script and no required experience. Calls simply become part of two people’s week, the way a standing coffee date would.
The National Institute on Aging points to regular voice calls as one of the most effective ways to maintain friendships as people age. Other benefits include better mood, sharper cognitive function, and even longevity. Over time, many of these pairings turn into genuine friendships. Nobody’s checking a box here; everyone involved is building a habit of talking to someone who’s glad to hear from them.
Engage With the Community Without Leaving Home
The Friendly Caller program doesn’t require a car or even leaving the house. It just requires a phone and a little time.
If getting out to an event, a meeting, or volunteering as a driver for our program isn’t realistic right now, that doesn’t shut the door on staying engaged — or on giving something back. Placing a call is something anyone can do! We don’t think of connection as something you can only receive when your world gets smaller. It’s something you can create no matter what.
For anyone who’s chosen to give up driving or leave a job or a routine that used to be their main source of daily contact with other people, partnering with other people for weekly phone calls is a simple, meaningful way to find purpose, meaning and connection.
When In-Person Time Fits Better: The Friendly Visitor Program
Not every connection works best over the phone, which is why SCNOVA also hosts the Friendly Visitor Program alongside Friendly Caller. Visitors may share a meal, read together, play a game, or plan a social visit. It’s up to the pair and whatever the two people actually enjoy doing together! The benefits go both ways. It’s a great way for people to stay connected and build new relationships they wouldn’t have otherwise had.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any special experience to become a caller? No. No specific skills are required — SCNOVA provides vetting and training, and the conversations themselves are just, well, conversations.
Can someone who’s homebound sign up to be a caller, not just receive calls? Yes. Making the call requires a phone, not a driver’s license or a full schedule outside the house.
How often do the calls happen? About once a week, on a schedule set around both people’s routines.
Where does SCNOVA offer this program? Reston, Vienna, Oakton, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Great Falls, and Herndon, Virginia.
Is this a fit for someone in hospice or living with dementia? Not currently — the Friendly Caller and Friendly Visitor programs aren’t designed for hospice or dementia care needs.
Ready to Be Matched?
Whether a weekly call or a regular visit sounds like the better fit, getting started is one phone call away: (703) 281-0538, or visit the Friendly Caller Program or Friendly Visitor Program pages to sign up.