A Unique Call for Connection: “Call a Boomer” Project in Boston
On a busy street in Boston, a vibrant yellow payphone encourages passersby to “Call a Boomer.” Meanwhile, in Reno, Nevada, a similar phone invites residents of a senior living complex, Sierra Manor, to “Call a Zoomer.” The idea behind this initiative is simple: to foster conversations between strangers across generations.
This project, known informally as “Call a Boomer,” comes from Matter Neuroscience, a company based in New York that is focused on understanding the “biomarkers of happiness.” Calla Kessler, a social strategist at Matter, believes this initiative can bridge the gap between two groups often feeling lonely—older adults and younger adults.
“Younger and older adults are among the most isolated age groups,” the company notes. The project’s aim is to spark meaningful conversations, crossing barriers of age, lifestyle, and even politics.
Kessler hopes these conversations will shift people’s focus from stress to building connections. “We want to promote the positive feelings linked to friendship,” she explained. Research suggests that feeling connected can counteract stress, a concept she’s passionate about.
This isn’t Matter’s first venture with payphones; their earlier project connected citizens of San Francisco, a liberal city, with residents of Abilene, Texas, known for more conservative views. Kessler shared that they wanted to encourage people to find common ground beyond their labels.
The feedback from participants has been largely positive, with many enjoying the chance to talk to someone from a different background.
Now, the focus of their work has shifted from politics to generational divides. As this initiative progresses, the team is recording the conversations to highlight how simple connections can boost mental well-being.
“Our goal is to discover non-drug solutions for alleviating depression,” Kessler remarked. Looking towards the future, she assures that exciting activities will be coming soon, aimed at inspiring people to engage with each other and learn more about themselves.
