My friend, Robert Zotynia and I have been working together on the True Friendship project for almost three years. This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council and awarded to Values Into Action. We’ve learned a lot. As the holidays get closer, a time when some people feel lonely, we think about why friendship is so important.
Friendship isn’t just something nice to have; it’s a key part of feeling good and fitting in.
Today, life can feel busy and people can feel disconnected. Having friends who understand and support us can make a big difference. Friends help us feel safe, give us a sense of who we are, and bring happiness. They remind us that we aren’t alone when life is hard or when we celebrate.
For some people, making friends is easy. For others, especially those with disabilities or who feel left out, it can take time and effort. Friendships don’t just happen, they grow when people spend time together, trust each other, and show respect. These relationships help us feel important and connected, which is good for our mental health.
Friendship also helps people feel included.
When someone has real friends, they can join in community activities, have more chances in life, and feel like they belong, not just because of support programs. The True Friendships Project shows that professionals and advocates can help by creating places where real friendships can grow. This means encouraging people to share interests, respecting each other’s boundaries, and knowing that friendship is a two-way street.
So, how can we build friendships in our lives and communities?
Start by thinking about what friendship means to you. What do you look for in a friend? What do you like to do with others? The Friendship Portfolio tools from LifeCourse Nexus (coming soon) suggest starting with these questions. Then, take small steps, join a group, talk to someone you admire, or make time for good conversations.
Friendship isn’t just something extra, it’s something everyone needs. Building relationships makes our lives better and helps our communities grow stronger. Let’s make friendship a priority, because when we do, everyone wins.
The True Friendships Project is funded by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council.