Project UnLonely

Loneliness and isolation are among today’s most urgent public health crises.

In response to the growing public health concern of social isolation and loneliness, the Foundation for Art & Healing launched Project UnLonely in 2016.

The goal of this initiative is to broaden public awareness of the negative physical and mental health consequences of loneliness, which burdens a wide range of living conditions and circumstances. This national campaign raises awareness of the loneliness epidemic and empowers people and communities to connect with each other through the arts.

Over one-third of adults report significantly feeling this way, and research shows it can lead to a 30% increased risk of early death—on par with smoking 15 cigarettes per day! What’s more, other mental health-related issues can result from these feelings, such as depression, suicide, and substance abuse.

To address the most urgent needs and areas with greatest potential impact, Project UnLonely focuses on several initiatives: older adults, college students, employees, and individuals with marginalized identities.

Aging UnLonely

Millions of older adults struggle with isolation and feelings of loneliness. To improve well-being for older adults facing critical health vulnerabilities associated with loneliness, we enable partners to use the arts as an accessible and effective public health solution.

Campus UnLonely

Young people ages 18 to 22, are significantly more likely to be lonely than any other generation in the US. We support higher-education institutions and students by offering creative expression programs that can inspire and improve health and academic performance.

Community UnLonely

The loneliness epidemic affects everyone. In particular, it creates significant barriers for population groups such as caregivers, immigrants, LGBTQIA youth, and veterans. We help communities pull together and strengthen social connections through a suite of program opportunities.

Workplace UnLonely

Many employees are feeling an overwhelming sense of isolation from working remotely or from losing their traditional networks of support at work. We assist businesses in managing and preventing loneliness through innovative and effective programming.

UnLonely Film Festival

Engagement in the arts reduces stress and burnout, fosters community, and helps people better understand themselves and others. By using the storytelling power of film, the UnLonely Film Festival draws viewers in emotionally and creates a deeper understanding and awareness of loneliness.

The UnLonely Film Festival, now in its seventh season, has selected 35–40 films that explore themes of loneliness, connection, and belonging from diverse perspectives. With over 100 films available for free viewing, the UnLonely Film Festival helps the public empathize with themselves and others by sharing diverse perspectives and situations.

One in three Black people experience loneliness. Watch the films Jamaal Through the Lens, Sunday’s Child, and Throw.

Watch more than 100 award-winning short films for free at unlonelyfilms.org.