The Check-In Call
Call someone who lives alone: an older neighbor, a widowed friend, a relative far away. No reason needed. Just: "I was thinking of you and wanted to hear your voice."
How to do it
- Choose someone who might be lonely.
- Call, don't text. A voice means more.
- Ask about their day, then really listen.
- Before you hang up, plan the next call.
Why this chance matters
For someone who lives alone, a whole day can go by without hearing another person say their name. Loneliness is common, especially later in life, after a loss, or after a move, and many people won't admit to it. A friendly phone call doesn't fix everything, but it says something important: you haven't been forgotten.
Ways to take this chance
- Keep it easy. Ask what they had for lunch, what they're watching, or what's blooming in their garden. Small talk is the point.
- Ask about their stories. "What was your first job?" or "How did you meet your husband?" Many people love to share memories and rarely get asked.
- Make it regular. A standing call, like every Sunday afternoon, gives them something to look forward to all week.
- Listen for needs. If they mention trouble getting groceries, rides, or paying bills, our Help for Seniors guide lists free resources you can share.
Only have five minutes? A short call still counts. "I only have a few minutes, but I wanted to say hello" is a lovely way to start.
Make it fun: Do a video call and give them a tour of your garden or kitchen, or let a grandchild sing them a song.
Want to look out for neighbors in a more organized way? See how to set up a Neighborhood Check-In Tree, or help someone fill out a free Emergency Contact Sheet for their fridge.
Did you take the chance? Tell us how it went on the Wall of Chances. Your story might inspire someone else to try.
🃏 Draw another Give a Chance card | See the whole deck