Befrienders

Our Vision Befrienders envisions a community in which older adults are valued for both their past and present contributions to society and continue to live socially active, connected, and independent lives. Our Mission The mission of Befrienders is to connect community volunteers with older adults for companionship, support, and advocacy. Our Values Befrienders’ values are at the heart of everything we do. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns use these principles to guide all decisions and actions, and we are committed to building an organization that reflects and inspires these values throughout our community. We are guided by: Compassion Dignity Friendship Independence Commitment Our History Befrienders began in February 1993 after an 84-year-old woman tapped on Pete Merrill’s car window in a grocery store parking lot. Sadie began, “Young man,…” which immediately got Pete’s attention as he was almost 60 at the time. She offered Pete 35 cents in return for a ride home. Pete not only drove her home and cleared ice from her sidewalks, but was asked to come back and visit over cookies and ginger ale. Pete, a retired investment banker, recognized a need for older residents to maintain a social connection with the larger community. Starting with 106 names from the ‘Meals on Wheels’ recipient list, he learned that there is a population of senior citizens in Bozeman with few opportunities for social interaction. Together with key individuals at Montana State University and other active community members, Pete founded Befrienders so that people of different generations could form and nurture a mutually enriching relationship. His wife is still on the Befrienders

​Befrienders is dedicated to reducing isolation and loneliness among older adults by fostering meaningful connections and strengthening community support. Through compassionate volunteers, we create empowering friendships, supporting seniors to live with dignity, independence, and a sense of belonging. Our main program, Befriend a Senior, matches caring volunteers with isolated and lonely seniors in need of friendship. Volunteers commit to just one hour per week for one year, creating consistent, supportive relationships that enrich lives on both sides. With more than 130 active matches, we proudly serve seniors throughout the Gallatin Valley, are expanding into Big Sky, and continue to grow steadily in Park County. Our second program, Lend a Hand, provides practical assistance to help seniors maintain their independence. Volunteers support older adults with tasks such as light housekeeping, yard work, technology assistance, and other tasks that could pose a risk to their well-being and ability to age in place. This flexible, as-needed program ensures seniors receive timely support while offering meaningful short-term volunteer opportunities. In addition to our core programs, Befrienders hosts engaging events that bring joy and connection to the seniors we serve. Signature events include our annual Senior Prom, festive holiday celebrations, and interactive improv classes, along with other enriching activities throughout the year. Together, these programs fulfill our mission of alleviating loneliness, fostering intergenerational relationships, and enhancing the well-being of older adults. With the help of our dedicated volunteers and community partners, we are building a more compassionate and connected community—one friendship at a time.