History: Discovering a Local Need

In 1994, several members from First Presbyterian Church met with staff from the Outreach Community Center in Carol Stream to assess the growing needs of senior citizens in the neighborhood surrounding the Community Center. A Steering Committee composed of Outreach staff and First Presbyterian Church members studied the needs of these neighborhood seniors and found the following problems very common: Many seniors are limited financially, suffer poor mobility, have few easily accessible transportation options, and deal with depression due to social isolation. Thus it is difficult for these seniors to obtain basic necessities themselves or to easily access transportation to medical and other important appointments. The social isolation these seniors feel from family, each other, and the Church, makes the need for friendship very significant. A response from the Christian community seemed called for by the situation.

What is Friendly Visiting?

In response to these needs, the Friendly Visiting Program was created by First Presbyterian Church and the Outreach Community Center. This program seeks to reduce isolation among seniors by matching two volunteers to each senior citizen from south Carol Stream in the program. Volunteers visit his/her senior match twice each month providing friendship and tangible assistance where necessary. Visitors receive guidance and support from a member of the Steering Committee and the Community Center. An orientation/training is also provided.

What do Friendly Visitors Do?

To nurture a friendship which is marked by care and concern, visitors and seniors may do a variety of activities together such as:

How can I become a Friendly Visitor?

If you have any questions about this important ministry or are interested in becoming a volunteer or Steering Committee member, please contact any of the Committee members listed below.