Community CallHub

Social isolation is a growing public health concern, especially among older adults. The U.S. Surgeon General report on the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation has warned that loneliness can be as damaging to health as smoking or obesity, increasing the risk of dementia, heart disease, and other serious conditions. As social circles shrink with age, staying connected becomes more difficult, but also more essential. The Community CallHub is a simple, powerful way to foster connection through regular, meaningful conversations that support mental and emotional well-being.

Connecting Through Conversation

The Community CallHub is an evidence-based program, and the model is simple. It connects people of all ages through meaningful, weekly phone calls. This program pairs two participants: a caller and a companion. These regular conversations foster connection, reduce loneliness, and build lasting relationships. Anyone seeking a sense of community and human connection can benefit from joining.

Family hugging together
Volunteer to CallRequest a Call

Young girl on her smartphone with papers in her hand
The caller must be over the age of 18 and interested in sharing conversations, stories, or simply checking in with older adults in the San Diego community.
Mature woman calling on a smartphone
The companion is someone who has requested regular calls to enjoy companionship, conversation, and the opportunity to build connections. Companions should be aged 55 and older.

History of The Community CallHub

The Community CallHub began as a pilot program in Spring 2024, initially known as the Intergenerational CallHub. This pilot focused on connecting SDSU students with socially isolated older adults. The results revealed that both older adults and students experienced significant benefits from brief, weekly, phone-based conversations.

Program of Merit badge given to the Callhub center

In February 2025, the Intergenerational CallHub was honored with the Program of Merit award from Generations United, placing it among an elite group of recognized intergenerational programs.

Encouraged by these positive outcomes, CEAL expanded the program to reach a broader audience, evolving into the Community CallHub to connect people of all ages across the community.




Partners

CEAL is excited to partner with Determined Health, the City of San Diego AgeWell Services, and Meals on Wheels San Diego to provide the Community CallHub, an innovative and impactful program designed to foster intergenerational connections while addressing the urgent and widespread challenges of loneliness and social isolation.

Resources

For more information, please contact Jocelyn Protopappas at [email protected].