D.C. United Honors HelpAge USA and Friendship Bench DC in 2026 Community Champion Series

HelpAge USA and its signature program, Friendship Bench DC, were spotlighted as part of D.C. United’s 2026 Community Champion Series for its commitment to strengthening communities through compassion, connection and mental health support. 

HelpAge USA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the well-being and potential of older adults through research, advocacy and community-based programming. Friendship Bench DC, one of HelpAge USA’s programs, trains older adult volunteers to provide mental health support throughout D.C. 

Honored during halftime at D.C. United’s 2-2 draw against Nashville SC on Saturday, August 1 at Audi Field, HelpAge USA staff and Friendship Bench DC grandparents were recognized for their dedication to fostering connection and helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.  

“It’s incredibly exciting and emotional to be here” said Cindy Cox-Roman, President and CEO of HelpAge USA. “To see the grandparents who are so committed and have devoted so much time to training and serving on Friendship Bench to be recognized in this way is just indescribable. We're an organization that works with and for older people to make sure that not only their needs, but their contributions are recognized and the ways in which they can contribute to the community.” 

Modeled after the Friendship Bench introduced by psychiatrist Dr. Dixon Chibanda in Zimbabwe Friendship Bench DC is a free, completely confidential program where individuals can speak with trained grandparents at sites throughout D.C. Since launching in 2024, Friendship Bench DC has facilitated more than 800 sessions. 

“Mental health is a problem in our community and it’s growing,” Cox-Roman Said. “A lot of people feel isolated. Older people can make a huge difference, and they’re an underutilized resource in our community. HelpAge USA is an organization that brings together older people to meet the needs that exist in our community. We hope people support it and help us grow to expand the program and make sure it reaches more people.” 

Friendship Bench DC grandparents come from a range of backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and creating a welcoming environment for individuals seeking support and understanding.  

It’s about creating safe spaces for people to be heard,” said Tuere Marshall, a Friendship Bench DC Grandparent. “We’re building trust and strengthening our community, one conversation at a time.” 

Looking ahead, Cox-Roman shared her vision for the program’s future and the continued impact she hopes it will have in the community. 

“We hope that within five years, there will be a Friendship Bench within walking distance of everyone who needs it in Washington, D.C. with a focus on neighborhoods that are underserved,” Cox-Roman said. “That’s the goal, to expand here and make mental health care accessible. For people that do need professional care, we do a referral, but a lot of people just need a listening ear to feel better. Our goal is to have that listening ear available and then we’re looking to expand outside of D.C. in the future.” 

To learn more about Friendship Bench DC or schedule a free, confidential session, visit helpageusa.org/friendshipbench. 

To learn more about D.C. United's impact in the community, please visit dcunited.com/community/.