Having spent several years unexpectedly alone after a big breakup in my mid twenties, I'd also highly recommend getting involved in a church, even if it's just to serve others in some practical way organized by the church. Most churches have plenty of need in "care" ministries like bringing meals (and conversation) to people who are homebound, or in the hospital. One cool thing our church does is organize volunteers to help with teaching English as a second language to refugees living in our community.
Do enough of these kinds of things and not only will you connect with those you serve, but also with those serving others out of love. These are good people to be connected to, especially since you'll become more like them over time.
Absolutely. I have one friend who also goes out and does stuff on his own. Not things organized by the church we attend. He volunteers at a soup kitchen every Sunday. Honestly there are so many things you can do to help others. I find this is the best way to get out of the self pity loneliness loop. Help others and make yourself a benefit to society. It gives us purpose and you gain more than you give typically.
Do enough of these kinds of things and not only will you connect with those you serve, but also with those serving others out of love. These are good people to be connected to, especially since you'll become more like them over time.