Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly

Since 1959, Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly, Chicago Chapter’s mission, philosophy, programs and activities remain focused on alleviating loneliness and isolation among elders. Social interaction is critical to the human spirit — we believe that nurturing the soul is as important as feeding the body.

• About Us
  All of our programs and services, always provided at no cost, are designed to remind Chicago’s elders that they are not forgotten and not alone. Through our programs, elders are able to make lasting, meaningful friendships with each other, volunteers and staff. And through our social work services, elders are supported and empowered in making important life decisions.
• Our Impact
  LBFE improves the quality of life for an average of 1,200 elders in Chicago. Together, volunteers and staff:
  
  • Provide opportunities for social connection among an average of 1,200 seniors with virtual or socially distanced connections and, when it is appropriate, social gatherings
  • Relieve loneliness for more than 600 extremely isolated elders by connecting at least twice a month with phone visits and face-to-face visits following public health guidelines
  • Help elders maintain independence and connection through 2,500 direct service contacts and food bag deliveries
  • Address anxiety and depression among seniors by screening 900 seniors in our program for anxiety and depression and providing appropriate intervention, with support from partner agencies specializing in mental health services to seniors
  • Improve the quality of life and virtual connection of interested elders by providing technical support on 200 occasions
  • Connect elders and community members by recruiting, training and managing more than 1,500 volunteers to provide personalized support and connection to the elders we serve