Silvia Schmitz, Program Manager
Silvia is originally from Brainerd, Minnesota, where she grew up skiing, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors in Northern Minnesota. She moved to Bozeman in 2019 and has loved living here ever since—she’s here to stay!
In her free time, Silvia enjoys spending time with friends, skiing at Bridger Bowl, going to the rodeo, playing pickleball, swimming in lakes and rivers, exploring Main Street, and traveling. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science, with a minor in Personal Finance, from Montana State University in 2023. Silvia first joined Befrienders as an MSU intern and was hired after graduating in 2023.
As the Program Manager for Befrienders, Silvia is honored to support older adults and foster meaningful connections between generations. This role has enriched her perspective on life and aging, deepening her passion for giving back to the seniors who have shaped our communities. She firmly believes in the power of companionship and the importance of building strong, lasting connections.
"Working with older adults, I have found so much generational wisdom; it has completely changed my perspective on people’s lives and the importance of connection. I have seen firsthand how easy it can be to become disconnected. I have also experienced loneliness myself—we all have. Knowing that there is even one person we can call for support can make a profound difference in our well-being. We all need a friend!"
