In Fall 2008, inspired by a talk by the founders of Beacon Hill Village, a group of Wellesley friends began to envision a “village” of older adults engaged in their community and living in their own homes. 

The vision included three goals:

1. Provide a rich program of social, intellectual, cultural, educational, and physical activities that would foster connection and new friendships;

2. Create opportunities for members to help each other when needed with rides, a listening ear at medical appointments, grocery shopping; and

3. Collect and share member recommendations of service providers such as plumbers, healthcare agencies, lawyers, and painters.

The organization opened in 2011 as Wellesley at Home with 113 members. Two years later the name was changed to Wellesley Neighbors to reflect membership also coming from the surrounding towns of Dover, Natick, Needham, and Weston. Wellesley Neighbors is currently a community of up to 150 older adults who come together regularly to share meals, learn new subjects, visit cultural sites, and support each other, enriching their lives with new experiences and friendships. To date we have filled more than one thousand volunteer support requests ranging from meals and rides to prescription pickups, dump runs, and computer coaching.  Our database of service providers includes over 300 referrals to vendors and professionals.

Staff and member volunteers collaborate to develop and deliver  a wide range of activities, programs, and events, along with numerous opportunities for community engagement. The offered essential assistance and support services enable each member to live an active, independent, and healthy life while successfully managing the transitions that come with aging.