Blog

1. Can you briefly describe your social prescribing program and the communities it serves?
Hank by Wider Circle is a digital social platform designed for adults 55+, helping them discover meaningful activities, connect with peers, and stay socially and physically active. Members can access local events, virtual programs (including for states where we don’t host in-person activities), and trusted resources that reduce loneliness and improve overall well-being. We partner with health plans and physician groups in neighborhoods across the country. We currently serve diverse communities across California, Florida, and New York, where many older adults are looking for safe, accessible ways to build social connections and maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

2. What types of social prescriptions (e.g., arts, nature, volunteering) are referred, and who serves as the connector?

Hank offers a wide variety of social prescriptions designed to keep members active, connected, and engaged. From lively socials, luncheons, and coffee meetups to fitness classes, walking groups, cultural events, museum tours, crafting, and educational workshops. Members can also take part in meaningful volunteer opportunities that give back while building friendships along the way.

For those who prefer to join from home, Hank also provides a robust menu of virtual programs. Members can sharpen their skills in digital literacy classes, find calm in guided meditation sessions, or simply enjoy purely social fun like our Friday afternoon dance parties.

Hank isn’t just about attending events, it’s also about empowering members to lead. In addition to our scheduled programming, members can post and host their own activities, from neighborhood meetups to book clubs, giving everyone the chance to bring people together in new and meaningful ways.

Our platform makes it simple to stay connected. With a built-in messaging function, members can start conversations and build relationships even before their first event. Personalized recommendations help members discover the activities best suited for their interests, while our trained Community Liaisons are always there to host events, guide members, and encourage ongoing participation.

3. How is your program funded?
Hank is a product of Wider Circle, which also runs Connect for Life, a program sponsored by health plans. Hank is free to join for anyone age 55+. There's no cost to become a member, and members use the platform without fees. While most activities are free, some events may have a small cost—when that's the case, it is always noted up front.

4. How has social prescribing impacted the health and well-being of the people you serve, and which outcome measures do you use to track impact?
Hank members consistently report feeling less lonely, more socially connected, and more motivated to care for their health. Our hybrid model—digital access paired with in-person events within a few miles of someone’s home, makes it easy to engage both virtually and locally. We measure impact through app engagement data, attendance tracking, and member surveys that capture changes in social connection and overall well-being.

5. What advice would you give to others looking to start a social prescribing program?
Prioritize building trust and making participation as easy as possible. A digital-first platform lowers barriers by meeting people where they are, while local partnerships ensure activities feel relevant and community-driven. Pair technology with human support—members thrive when they feel guided, not just connected. Finally, establish clear outcome tracking from the start to demonstrate both social and health benefits, which are critical for funders and long-term growth.