Rochester's "Scroll Less" Campaign Fights Loneliness

Social isolation is rising across America, but one Rochester nonprofit just launched a solution that's refreshingly simple: put down your phone and make a friend.

Compeer Rochester rolled out its "Scroll Less, Connect More" campaign in May 2026 to help volunteers and community members build genuine friendships while cutting back on screen time. The program pairs people who might otherwise spend hours scrolling alone with caring volunteers ready to connect in person.

The campaign comes at a critical time. Americans spend an average of seven hours daily on screens, while loneliness rates have hit record highs. Compeer Rochester recognized these two problems were connected and decided to tackle both at once.

Adam Bellave signed up as a volunteer and found the experience transformative. Dan Ofsowitz joined as a participant seeking connection. Together with other volunteers and participants, they shared their stories on Rochester's WXXI News to encourage others to join the movement.

The organization made getting involved incredibly easy. Anyone interested can visit Compeer Rochester's website to sign up as either a volunteer or participant. No special training required, just a willingness to show up and be present.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a local campaign is already creating waves beyond individual friendships. Sara Passamonte, CEO of Compeer Rochester, notes that when people replace scrolling with real connection, entire communities benefit. Less isolation means better mental health, which reduces strain on healthcare systems and strengthens neighborhood bonds.

Youth specialists Stefan Hurd and Jerry Grimshaw have watched young people particularly benefit from the program. Teens and young adults, often labeled as the most screen-addicted generation, are discovering the joy of device-free friendships. They're learning social skills that no app can teach and building confidence that comes only from real human interaction.

The beauty of this campaign lies in its simplicity. Compeer Rochester isn't asking people to delete their social media or throw away their phones. They're simply offering something better: the chance to be seen, heard, and valued by another person who's actually in the room.

Every new volunteer match creates two winners: someone who gains a friend and someone who becomes one.