Tom and Raymond enjoy their strolls together, often walking Sudbury’s conservation trails as they catch up on what’s new. Raymond, a 61-year-old man with autism, eagerly anticipates Tom’s weekly visits, and over time, they’ve developed a genuine bond. And Tom looks forward to the walks, too.
“As a parent, friend, and researcher, I know that isolation can take a toll on people’s lives,” Tom reflects. “The Surgeon General says that loneliness is an epidemic, and research shows that being socially isolated can be more harmful to your health than smoking, drinking, or obesity.”
“Advocates has helped my two sons through their own challenges, so I wanted to do something to give back,” comments Tom. “The Friendship Project is perfect. I have spare time, and Raymond doesn’t have a lot of friends, so we were introduced to each other last year,” he adds.
Through the Friendship Project, community volunteers are matched with an adult who has a disability and is looking for a friend. Maryellen Killeen, the volunteer coordinator, is dedicated to making just the right match for people. “Friends should be comfortable with one another, share common interests, and ideally, be in the same peer group. That’s my goal.”
Some of The Friendship Project matches talk on the phone or over FaceTime. Some go out for lunch or run errands. And some go to the gym or take walks in the woods. “What matters most is that they have a caring relationship,” says Maryellen. “Real friends. That’s the dream. Everyone deserves a friend.”
Raymond lives at home with his sister, Dottie. When he’s not spending time with Tom or his sister, Raymond enjoys watching game shows and listening to classic rock. Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven is a favorite.
The Friendship Project benefits both adults with disabilities and their caretakers or family members. “Raymond truly enjoys his time with Tom. Having Tom still in Ray’s life has meant a lot to him and me,” says Dottie. “And Tom enjoys volunteering so much, he has two additional Friendship Project friends,” she adds.
If you would like to join The Friendship Project, please contact Maryellen Killeen at [email protected].
