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Seattle group combats loneliness by connecting neighbors
Story published 05/18/26
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared a ‘loneliness epidemic,’ saying at least 30% of people across all demographics are at risk for social isolation, and that lacking social connection can increase risk of premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.
A Seattle organization is in the pilot phase of their plan to help people build connections across the city. The Seattle Chamber of Connection’s executive director, Charlotte Massey, says Seattle loneliness levels are higher than the national average. She attributes this to the many transplants here who did not grow up in the city.
“Those transition points can be really strong opportunities for us to build connection across difference, and also to build the city that we want to live in,” said Massey.
They have identified six points of connection that every person needs to live a connected life. The first point: You should know your neighbors and have a point of contact in your neighborhood.
The organization, in partnership with the City of Seattle, runs programming such as the Best Ever program, essentially a series of adult field trips to explore and learn more about Seattle neighborhoods and deepen people's feelings of belonging in the city.
“We support over 170 community builders around the city who are organizing small grassroots gatherings. And then we also work with larger organizations like the Pacific Northwest Ballet and Fifth Avenue Theater to provide connections in places where people are already gathering. So how can you make sure that if you show up to an event? Even if you're coming by yourself, you end up meeting someone new and feeling like you're part of a community,” Massey said.
