"My friend is here."
These are the first words Nilma Dominique hears whenever she walks through the door to visit Isaura, an older adult originally from Cape Verde.
In 2021, a FriendshipWorks staff member reached out to Nilma in search of someone who spoke Portuguese. At the time, Nilma was teaching language classes at MIT. When asked if she would consider volunteering as a Friendly Visitor, she happily agreed.
Nilma says, “I know firsthand how hard life can be as an immigrant, especially when you’re in a foreign country and don’t speak the language. That feeling of being disconnected from everyone around you.”
Quiet at first, Isaura gradually became more comfortable talking with Nilma. They talk often, discussing everyday topics including Isaura’s recent experience with physical therapy. And though their conversation feels simple and routine, they have reached that important connection — friendship. “She is part of my life. I wake up wondering how she’s doing,” Nilma says. “I think the idea of learning from each other, the exchange of experiences, and breaking down those walls of isolation is very powerful.”
Nilma’s schedule fills up quickly and she often wishes she could spend more time with Isaura. “The moments we do share are still so enriching, and I know she also enjoys it,” Nilma says.
Nilma felt deeply connected to her grandparents and other elders in her life and is now more aware of the unique challenges older adults face. She sees the importance of human connection — not just for older adults but for everyone.
“FriendshipWorks has been especially meaningful to me because it’s not just about helping someone — it’s about forming a lasting, genuine friendship.” The experience has taught Nilma that the gifts of time and presence are powerful.
“We feel like we are not giving — we are receiving. The friendship is working all by itself,” she says. “Isaura is a very special part of my life.” And Isaura’s simple words, “My friend is here,” tells Nilma that the feeling is mutual.
The kindness of our supporters brought this friendship to life. Help us match more older adults with caring volunteers like Nilma — and create bonds that ease isolation and spark joy by donating today: fw4elders.org/donate
