New initiative introduces resources, training programs and events designed
to help Franklin residents build meaningful connections
FRANKLIN, Tenn. – Franklin Mayor Ken Moore today announced the launch of Franklin Connects, a new community initiative focused on reducing loneliness and increasing belonging. Mayor Moore made the announcement at the Carousel of Dreams at The Factory at Franklin on the first day of Loneliness Awareness Week. Franklin Connects will offer a series of programs, resources and events designed to help residents build meaningful conversations.
“Loneliness has become a major mental health topic, and Franklin is no different from other communities,” said Mayor Moore, a champion of both Find Hope Franklin and Franklin Connects. “As our community continues to grow, so does the potential for people to feel isolated. Franklin Connects was created as a proactive approach to address loneliness and help people find meaningful ways to connect.”
The initiative emerged from Find Hope Franklin, a collaborative effort launched in 2020 to address mental health and substance use challenges in the community through education, resources and training. Franklin Connects builds upon that foundation by focusing specifically on loneliness and social isolation. Through education and opportunities for engagement, Franklin Connects aims to reduce loneliness and foster a stronger sense of belonging throughout the community.
At the launch event, Amy Alexander, CEO of The Refuge Center for Counseling, provided an overview of the loneliness epidemic that has become increasingly prevalent across the country. “In our digital-driven world, people are becoming disconnected from others,” said Alexander. “I’m proud that Franklin has the vision to recognize this. We are an inviting and welcoming community and, through Franklin Connects, we are going to help our fellow citizens find ways to plug in and find connections they never knew existed.”
Mayor Moore is excited about the opportunities Franklin Connects will provide.
“We want everyone in our community to know they have a place and a way to connect with others,” Moore said. “By creating opportunities for meaningful interaction, we can strengthen relationships and build a healthier, more connected community.”
Elements of the Franklin Connects initiative include:
FranklinConnects.org
A new website, FranklinConnects.org, serves as the central hub for the initiative, offering tools and resources to help residents recognize and combat loneliness. The site includes a brief three-question assessment to help individuals gauge their level of loneliness, educational resources, a community events calendar and a growing directory of local clubs, sports leagues, educational classes, churches and community organizations that can help residents find opportunities for connection.
Community Training Program
Franklin Connects is developing a training program featuring mental health and community engagement experts that will be available to churches, civic organizations, businesses and other groups throughout the community. The program will provide practical strategies for recognizing loneliness, supporting individuals who may be struggling with isolation and creating environments that foster connection and belonging.
Happy to Chat Benches
As a part of the initiative, eight “Happy to Chat” benches are being placed throughout Franklin to promote spontaneous conversation and interaction among community members. The benches provide a low-pressure, socially acceptable way for people to engage with others they may not know, helping create connections and strengthen community bonds. Current locations include the Carousel of Dreams by Ken Means at The Factory at Franklin, The Refuge Center, Williamson County Public Library, The Village at Church of the City, Williamson Health, and three Boyle Investment properties: McEwen Northside, Meridian Cool Springs and Berry Farms.
Folx Table: Make Connections Over a Meal
Franklin Connects is partnering with Folx Table, a shared dining experience designed to bring people together through meaningful conversation. Guests are seated in groups of four to six at local restaurants and thoughtfully matched to encourage discussion and connection, with guided prompts designed to help participants move beyond small talk and build authentic relationships. While participants cover the cost of their meal, Franklin Connects will cover the Folx Table participation fee for the first 50 guests who register through FranklinConnects.Org.
Community Engagement Fair Planned for Fall
In the fall, Franklin Connects will host a community engagement fair bringing together charitable organizations, civic groups, volunteer opportunities and local clubs seeking new members. The event will provide residents with an opportunity to discover organizations that align with their interests, connect with others and find meaningful ways to become involved in the community.
For more information about Franklin Connects, upcoming events and available resources, visit FranklinConnects.org.