INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Let’s Be Friends Indy, a local group aimed at fostering friendships among women, has grown to more than 20,000 members since its inception in 2020.

Founded by Bridget Lockert, Friends Indy focuses on combating loneliness and helping women connect meaningfully. The group’s mission aligns with the rising issue of loneliness among adults, especially those who have undergone life changes or moved to new areas.

Lockert, co-owner of Friends Indy, started the initiative as a Facebook group while living downtown. “I was single, living downtown Indy. My friends, a lot of my friends were at different stages of life than I were,” Lockert recalled. The group initially aimed to create an online space where women could introduce themselves and find like-minded individuals.