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SoloAgers Connect founder organizes coffee socials and an online hub for people aging alone
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Summary
Jill Kovalich described building SoloAgers Connect as an informational directory and community network offering vetted providers, social meetups across Connecticut and guidance for people aging alone to find services and social connection.
On the CT Paid Leave podcast, entrepreneur Jill Kovalich described SoloAgers Connect, a resource hub she built after caregiving for her parents. Kovalich said the site aggregates links to federal and state resources, nonprofit providers, housing, transportation and vetted service providers to help people aging alone find trustworthy support.
Kovalich described an expanding schedule of informal 'coffee socials' designed to reduce weekend isolation: recurring gatherings in Newington (third Saturday), Wallingford (third Wednesday), Farmington (fourth Saturday) and Tolland (first Friday), with plans to expand toward Old Saybrook and other Middlesex County locations. She said the events are low-barrier, take place in coffee shops and aim to facilitate conversation and connections.
The resource hub also includes written 'insights'—articles Kovalich researches and repurposes for solo agers on topics such as housing, finances and community programs. She emphasized vetting providers listed on the site and pairing online resources with in-person groups to build social capital.
Practical takeaway: Kovalich encourages solo agers to try one group or activity at a time, use public libraries and senior centers for learning and tech help, and consider volunteer work or classes to build connections. She also suggested pairing social initiatives with formal benefits—such as Connecticut paid leave—when caregiving responsibilities arise.
Quotes from the episode: “I built a website, which is really an informational directory for people like me,” Kovalich said. “So find something you like. Come to a coffee social. Maybe it's your thing.”
What’s next: Kovalich said she hopes the network keeps expanding and invited listeners to explore her site for local events and vetted service listings.
