JHU Parkinson's Pals
Parkinson's come in all shapes and sizes. Over 55% have experienced loneliness and social isolation. We connect them with college students to share their stories and feel supported.
Parkinson's come in all shapes and sizes. Over 55% have experienced loneliness and social isolation. We connect them with college students to share their stories and feel supported.
Our program pairs individuals living with Parkinson's Disease with Johns Hopkins University students for regular one-on-one conversations. These meaningful interactions provide companionship, reduce feelings of isolation, and create genuine intergenerational friendships.
For Pals (Individuals with Parkinson's Disease):
55% of individuals living with Parkinson's report feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Do you relate? Our program provides an outlet to share your experiences, gain intergenerational connections, and make new friends! Our program is free, can occur virtual or in-person (depending on preference), and there is no obligation to continue after trying it.
For Volunteers (JHU Students):
Our program provides an opportunity to gain new connections and gain valuable clinical/patient interaction experience in the form of clinical volunteering. If you're interested in joining as a volunteer, feel free to reach out by filling out the form! Email jzhan367@jhu.edu to join mailing list.
Interested in joining as a volunteer (JHU students only) or a Pal (someone with Parkinson's Disease)? Fill out the form below!
Meet the team behind JHU Parkinson's Pals
Physician Advisor
Dr. Mills is a physician and an associate professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University. He is the director of the Movement Disorders Division and the Neuromodulation and Advanced Therapies Clinic.
Clinical Coordinator
Sarah Phelan is a health educator at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and is the community outreach director of the Movement Disorders Clinic.
Student Coordinator
Jonathan is a junior at Johns Hopkins University studying Biomedical Engineering and Applied Math.