Meet Our Founder
Discover the heart and soul behind Senior Friends Network. Learn about the journey, motivation, and unwavering dedication that led to the creation of an organization committed to combating senior loneliness and fostering meaningful connections.
The Spark that Ignited it All
Senior Friends Network began long before it had a name. Years ago, when I was working for Costco’s E-Commerce call center, I realized something that stayed with me: many of the seniors who called weren’t just asking about products. They were reaching out because they wanted someone kind and patient to talk to. They stayed on the line a little longer. They asked more questions. They shared small pieces of their lives. And those conversations — those simple, human moments — became the highlight of my day.
It happened so often that I couldn’t ignore it. I started talking to family, friends, my doctor, and nurses, telling them about the idea forming in my mind: a network dedicated to offering seniors companionship, connection, and someone who genuinely cares. Every person I spoke with said the same thing — this is needed.
The idea stayed with me for years. It didn’t fade; it grew louder. I felt pulled toward it in a way I couldn’t shake.
Part of that comes from how I grew up. I’m a pastor’s kid, and some of my earliest memories involve visiting seniors in care centers, sitting with older members of our church in their homes, listening to their stories, and learning from their lives. The need for companionship and presence has been a constant thread throughout my life — something I witnessed early, often, and always.
Senior Friends Network was born from all of this: the seniors who found comfort in conversation during a simple customer service call, the years of feeling called to do more, and the lifelong connection I’ve felt to older adults in my community. I created this organization because I want to help, because I know how much companionship matters, and because no one should feel alone or unheard as they grow older.
This work is not just a mission — it is something I’ve carried with me for a long time. Starting Senior Friends Network is my way of honoring that call and making sure every senior has someone who shows up, listens, and cares.
About Marguerite
Marguerite Kissling is the Founder and Executive Director of Senior Friends Network, a community-based organization dedicated to reducing loneliness and strengthening social connection among older adults. With a background that blends community engagement, training and development, and people-centered service work, Marguerite brings a thoughtful, compassionate leadership style to the organization.
Throughout her career, she has been drawn to roles that prioritize empathy, listening, and support. She has extensive experience working with diverse communities, developing learning programs, and building environments where people feel welcomed, valued, and understood. Her commitment to connection and dignity for older adults is rooted in a lifelong belief that companionship plays a vital role in emotional well-being.
Marguerite founded Senior Friends Network with a clear mission: to create meaningful opportunities for seniors to experience friendship, conversation, and a renewed sense of belonging. Under her leadership, the organization offers programs such as companionship visits, phone support, a pen pal network, and Life Story Recording — all designed to help seniors feel seen and supported.
Known for her creativity, empathy, and dedication, Marguerite is committed to building a warm, inclusive community where no senior has to navigate aging alone. Her vision is to expand Senior Friends Network into a trusted resource for families, volunteers, and older adults seeking connection, comfort, and genuine human presence.
"Senior Friends Network isn't just a service; it's a lifeline for seniors seeking genuine connection and companionship. The founder's vision and dedication shine through in every interaction, making a real difference in the lives of older adults."
A Grateful Family Member