Frequently Asked Questions
Is Special Match right for me?
Special Match is designed for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities who have a genuine interest in building new connections. Whether you’re looking for a romantic relationship or simply hoping to make new friends, we are here to support you.
How old do I have to be to participate?
You must be 21 or older to participate with Special Match.
What is the difference between Match-Direct and Match-Supported?
Match-Direct is our independent model. Once a match is identified, you and your Support Contact receive the Match Profile and decide next steps together. We encourage Support Contacts to be available for the first date (for example, nearby or helping with logistics) and to share feedback with us after.
​
Match-Supported offers additional, fee-based professional support. In this model, a board-certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) or Behavioral Therapist (BCBA) can provide pre-date coaching, social skills practice, and help with planning. There is also an option for an SLP or BCBA to attend and help facilitate the first date for real-time support. This option will be available in late 2026.
How much does it cost?
There are no fees associated with Match-Direct thanks to the support of our nonprofit organization. When Match-Supported launches in late 2026, services will be offered at an hourly rate based on the standard market rate for private SLP or BCBA sessions. Our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status is pending, and once approved, all fees will go directly toward program operations and expanding access for participants.
Who qualifies as my Support Contact?
Your support Contact can be any of the following: Parent or other family member over 21, a staff member at your residential community, or your conservator. A Support Contact is required for each participant.
How do you decide who to match me with?
We take time to get to know you during your in-person All About You Session and through the development of your Match Profile (which you approve). Matches are based on the priorities you share — including things like shared interests, age range, location, and whether you’re looking for friendship or dating. Every introduction is thoughtful and intentional. And once a match is shared, you and your Support Contact decide together whether you’d like to connect. You are always in control.
What happens after you find a match for me?
When we find someone we think could be a great match, we’ll email both of your Support Contacts with your approved Match Profiles. This lets you see a photo and learn a little about each other before deciding whether to move forward.
​
If both of you are interested, your Support Contacts can connect to plan next steps. We encourage in-person meetings for a first date whenever possible, though video introductions are also an option. Either way, we ask that your Support Contact quietly “shadow” the first date (a respectful, fly-on-the-wall distance is perfect) to provide reassurance and post-date feedback.
​
If you decide not to meet or continue with a particular match, that’s completely okay. We’ll keep looking for new matches unless you let us know you’d like to pause or stop the process.
What if I am just looking for a friendship and don't want a relationship?
That’s wonderful! We match people for both friendships and romantic relationships — it’s all about what you’re looking for.
I am intertested in the Match-Supported option, when will this be available?
We anticipate launching Match-Supported in late 2026. If you’d like to stay updated, please select "Interested in Match-Supported" on the Contact Us page.