Add Us On GoogleAdd as a preferred source on Google
ROCKFORD, Ill. (Rockford News First) – The Winnebago County Health Department needs volunteers for a project designed to improve mental wellness in the Rockford area
Through the “Friendship Bench 815″ project, trained community volunteers will provide talk support at benches within the community
The Winnebago County Health Department says friendship benches improve access to mental health care for residents before they are in crisis and can prevent serious mental health concerns
The health department reports mental health is one of its priorities, with depression and anxiety the most frequently reported mental health concerns. Leaders say access to mental health services is one of the greatest challenges. That’s where the Friendship Bench 815 project comes in
To launch the project locally, the WCHD needs 50 volunteers by October 30. Volunteers will talk with community members to support them through everyday stress, anxiety and depression. Training is free to volunteers and no mental health background is needed. Leaders say volunteers will listen without judgement and create a safe space to connect. Sign-up is available on the health department’s website.
“Community starts when we share a seat,” said Dr. Sandra Martell, WCHD Public Health Administrator, “Friendship Bench 815 can help our community to improve our mental health through actively connecting and listening to each other, which has a lasting benefit to both the volunteer and those they serve.”
Once volunteers are in place, the health department has plans for four benches across the Rockford area:
- African-American Resource Center at Booker, 1005 S. Court Street, Rockford
- New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 4747 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
- Community Life Center of Rockford, 1011 Bishop Washington Ave., Rockford
- Northwest Community Center, 1325 N. Johnston Avenue, Rockford
The health department says Friendship Bench 815 follows the Friendship Bench model. Friendship benches are part of a global movement that started in a community in Zimbabwe. It has since been replicated in communities across the globe to provide accessible, community-based support for those struggling
To learn more about the Friendship Bench 815 project, or other ways to improve your mental wellbeing, visit the WCHD website
Copyright 2026 Rockford News First. All rights reserved
