Friendly support and community connection
Neighborhood Buddies is a community-based program that connects people who feel lonely or isolated with trained volunteer neighbors, called Buddies. We focus on building social connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging through regular check-ins and shared exploration of community life.
Neighborhood Buddies is part of a social prescribing approach, where healthcare partners and community organizations work together to address social isolation and support overall well-being. To learn more about the program or join in, download a flyer, or contact kate@sfcommunityliving.org.
Become a Volunteer Buddy
Make a difference for an isolated neighbor! We’re looking for volunteer Buddies who want to make connections and strenghthen their communities.
- Get training and meet other volunteer Buddies
- Our staff will work with you to make a good match
- Count on staff support throughout your match
- Commit for 4 months, with an option to continue
- Options for connecting in person and online
To learn more or sign up, contact kate@sfcommunityliving.org.
Make a difference for an isolated neighbor! We're looking for volunteer Buddies who want to make connections and strenghthen their communities.
Why Neighborhood Buddies matters
Social isolation can affect health, well-being, and quality of life. Neighborhood Buddies helps people feel more connected, more confident, and more supported in participating in community life. Programs like this complement healthcare and other services by addressing social connection as an important part of overall health.
How Neighborhood Buddies works
1. Match with a Buddy
After a short screening, we match participants with a trained volunteer Buddy based on interests, language, availability, and comfort.
2. Connect weekly
Buddies and participants check in about once a week. Check-ins can happen by phone, video, or in person, depending on what feels most comfortable.
3. Explore community activities together
A key part of Neighborhood Buddies is exploring community or group activities together. Buddies and participants talk about interests and attend or explore an activity together about once a month. Activities may be in person or online.
4. Ongoing staff support
CLC staff support both participants and volunteers throughout the program. Staff help with matching, check-ins, questions, transitions, and referrals to other programs or services when needed.