The Senior Companion Program is pleased to announce the appointment of Jamie Freeland as its new Executive Director. Freeland brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing, advertising, business development, fundraising, and community engagement to an organization whose mission has already changed her life.
For Freeland, this is not simply a new career—it is a calling.
Her passion for serving older adults began while volunteering with Meals on Wheels, where she quickly realized that delivering a meal was only part of what many seniors needed. The conversations, smiles, and friendships she formed each week became the highlight of her volunteer experience.
“I found my joy,” said Freeland. “I looked forward to seeing the seniors every week. It wasn’t just about delivering a meal—it was about spending time with someone who simply wanted someone to talk to. Those visits reminded me how powerful human connection really is.”
Inspired by those experiences, Freeland became involved with the Senior Companion Program and was matched with a Senior Companion herself. Witnessing the impact of companionship firsthand confirmed what she had already discovered through volunteering: one caring relationship can make an incredible difference in someone’s life.
Now, after more than two decades of helping businesses and organizations grow through marketing, advertising, fundraising, and business development, Freeland has found where she believes she was always meant to be.
“I truly believe everything in life happens for a reason,” Freeland said. “My entire career has prepared me for this opportunity. I’m excited to build relationships throughout our community, grow our volunteer base, secure additional funding, and make sure more seniors know they don’t have to face loneliness alone.”
The Senior Companion Program was founded in 1978 by the Dominican Sisters of Racine and is now a freestanding 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For nearly five decades, the program has enriched the lives of older adults throughout Racine County by connecting volunteers with seniors who benefit from regular friendship, companionship, and social connection.
The program’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for older adults through friendship, socialization, and information while recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual.
Volunteers spend as little as one hour each week visiting with a senior. Whether they are sharing a cup of coffee, playing cards, taking a walk, reminiscing about life, or simply enjoying a conversation, those moments help reduce loneliness, foster meaningful relationships, and give families peace of mind knowing their loved one has someone who genuinely cares.
The program strives to:
- Help alleviate loneliness and social isolation.
- Promote independence and emotional well-being.
- Provide families with comfort knowing someone is regularly visiting their loved one.
- Help older adults remain connected to their community while living with dignity and hope.
As Executive Director, Freeland plans to expand community awareness, recruit more volunteers, strengthen partnerships with local businesses and organizations, increase grant and donor support, and ensure that every senior who could benefit from companionship has the opportunity to be matched with a volunteer.
“There are so many people in our community who want to make a difference but don’t know where to start,” Freeland said. “The beautiful thing about the Senior Companion Program is that it only takes one hour a week. One hour of your time can become the brightest part of someone’s week. Sometimes all someone needs is a friend to listen, laugh, share stories, and remind them they are not alone.”
The Senior Companion Program is currently welcoming new volunteers and community partners who believe every older adult deserves friendship, connection, and companionship.
For more information about volunteering, requesting a Senior Companion, supporting the program through donations or grants, or learning more about the Senior Companion Program, contact:
Jamie Freeland
Executive Director
Senior Companion Program
Phone: (262) 210-3302
Email: jfreeland@seniorcompanionprogram.org
About the Senior Companion Program
Founded in 1978 by the Dominican Sisters of Racine, the Senior Companion Program is now a freestanding 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. With respect and recognition of the dignity of each human being, the Senior Companion Program enhances the quality of life for older adults through friendship, socialization, and information.
The program connects volunteers with older adults to reduce loneliness, foster independence, and provide families with peace of mind through meaningful companionship. The organization believes every senior deserves to age with dignity, hope, and the comfort of knowing someone cares.