Connections Project

The Connections Project works to decrease the potential effects and stigma of a mental health condition while supporting Baltimore County citizens age 60+ who are experiencing or at high risk for mental health challenges. Using the evidence-based model of peer support, volunteers connect via phone, text, video chat and/or in-person. They are aware of early warning signs, assist participants in accessing help, provide socialization, and are active role models.

Listen to WYPR’s 8/13/2020 and 1/4/2021 segments on the Connections Project for interviews with volunteers and participants.

Volunteer to Provide Support

At this time, the Connections Project is not recruiting new volunteers. Potential volunteers are welcome to learn more about the Project by reviewing our Connections Project Volunteer Manual. Please click the button below to learn more about the application process and apply.

Complete the Volunteer Application Form

Receive Support as a Participant

At this time, the Connections Project is at full capacity. All new referrals will be placed on a waitlist. Anyone can refer someone to receive supportive calls; you can even refer yourself! Click the button below to submit a referral or contact (443) 901‐1579 to complete the form over the phone.

Complete the Online Referral Form

After receiving your referral, Connection Project staff will reach out to the person you referred to check in on their well-being and ask a few questions about their interests and preferences. After accepting entry into the Connections Project, we do our best to match older adults with volunteers best suited to provide meaningful engagement and support.

Share the Connections Project

You’re welcome to download our flyer and social media graphics here. We can also mail you paper flyers- simply complete the order form.

Replicate the Connections Project

Interested in creating a Connections Project in your community? We’re happy to share our processes and materials with you. Contact peers@mhamd.org to request materials or schedule a call to learn about the inner workings of the project.

Other Peer Support Resources in Baltimore County

There are several organizations providing behavioral health peer support for all ages in Baltimore County. Click here to download our list of Baltimore County Peer Support Resources. If you know of other resources that should be on the list, please contact us!

Other visitation programs in Baltimore County, Maryland:

• Lori’s Hands pairs student volunteers with older adults living in the community to assist with housework, meal preparation, grocery shopping, and other household activities. In return, participants help students understand the experience of living with a chronic illness, navigating the healthcare system, or aging in place.

Call Programs in Other Counties

Interested in participating in a call program but don’t reside in Baltimore County? Below is a list of senior call programs we’ve learned of in other Maryland counties. If you know of a program that is not on this list, please share it with us so we can add it! For more resources in your local area, contact your county’s Maryland Access Point Office.

• Carroll County: Caring Carroll, (410) 775-5596
• Frederick County: Telephone Reassurance Program, (301) 663-0011
• Howard County: Connections and Kindred Spirits programs, (410) 313-6410 or email aging@howardcountymd.gov
• Prince George’s County:
  • Telephone Reassurance Program, (301) 265-8450
  • Laurel City Chat with a Senior Program, (301) 725-5300, ext. 2110 or email cmjohnson@laurel.md.us
• Not geographically limited:
  • Apart Not Alone, (403) 840-9027
  • AARP Friendly Voice Program: 1-888-281-0145
  • Statewide wellness check calls: Senior Call Check Program, 1-866-502-0560
  • The Friendship Line is a free, 24-hour crisis intervention hotline and warmline for non-emergency support for adults aged 60 years and older. 1-800-971-0016