Senior Services of Alexandria’s mission is fostering independence and self-sufficiency, enabling seniors with the city of Alexandria to age with dignity. As part of fulfilling their mission, the Friendly Visitor Program was created. This program is designed to enhance the quality of life of seniors by providing social interaction, mental stimulation, and emotional support. Hermitage Northern Virginia is proud to partner with Senior Services of Alexandria to offer the Friendly Visitor Program to residents. Trained volunteers are individually matched with seniors who has similar interests and life experiences. Over 300 matches have been made since the program began in 2012.

Leah Spellman (right) is one of 60 volunteers currently visiting older adults in Alexandria once a week through the program. She has been visiting resident Rose Hall (left) since last spring and they have already become good friends. Rose says “everyone has fallen in love with Leah”. So when she comes each week, three or four other residents join in to form a fun social group.

Rose worked as the editor of The Daughters of the American Revolution magazine for 40 years and enjoys the many activities offered at Hermitage Northern Virginia such as poetry group and exercise/yoga classes. Leah works in communications and public relations for Visit Alexandria, which promotes tourism by highlighting Alexandria’s rich history and culture.

Hermitage Northern Virginia is grateful for the partnership with the Friendly Visitors Program and for volunteers like Leah.

Learn more about Senior Services of Alexandria and their programs here.