The Social Bridging NC aims to alleviate difficulties that accompany social isolation and loneliness for North Carolina residents. We serve as a bridge between you and the resources you need to be happier and more comfortable at home.
About Social Bridging NC
The Social Bridging NC was started in 2020 by three people who wanted to find a way to support socially-isolated adults as the COVID-19 pandemic swept through North Carolina.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of social connections and the impact of social isolation on physical and mental health, emphasizing the need for creative solutions to help people stay connected and supported regardless of their circumstances.
With the support of two generous funders and their home institutions, the NC Center for Health and Wellness at UNC Asheville and the Center for Healthy Aging at Mountain Area Health Education Center, we started training volunteers and making check-in calls to isolated folks. Today the project is funded by NC’s Division of Aging and Adult Services.
Our mission is dedicated to addressing the negative consequences of social isolation and loneliness in older adults by building meaningful social connections and helping individuals find the resources they need to live as comfortably as possible.
What We Do
This program is for people who live in North Carolina and are experiencing social isolation or loneliness and feel they would benefit from regular social interaction over the phone, want help using basic technology to connect to others, or need help finding other resources in their community.
The Social Bridging NC is a free service that pairs older adults who feel isolated with trained callers who can provide the following:
- A conversation and friendly check-in.
- Help using your technology devices to connect with loved ones, remotely access fitness classes or faith communities, access medical care via telehealth, and more.
- Referrals to resources such as transportation services, meal deliveries, no-cost wellness programs, and more.
How it Works
To sign up, send us an email at socialbridge@unca.edu or call us at (828) 250-2399. You can also use the contact form to get in touch with a member of our team. Once you sign up, a Social Bridging NC team member will call you to learn more about you and your specific needs. We’re here to keep in touch on a regular basis or just when you need us.
Most importantly, we are here to talk, listen, and help connect you with your community in whatever way you may need.
Connect with Us Today!
Send us an email at socialbridge@unca.edu or call us at (828) 250-2399.
Prefer a penpal instead of a phone call?
Our Wellness Writers are trained community members who will write once a month to check in, exchange stories, and share the joy of a handwritten letter. If you’d like to connect with a penpal, please call (828) 250-2399 or email socialbridge@unca.edu.
Contact Us