How to Get Started
with Match-Direct
Step 1: Complete the Let's Get Started Form
Tell us a little about yourself and what you’re hoping to find through Special Match
Step 2: Sign the Agreement
If your Interest Form is accepted, we’ll send you the Special Match Agreement for both you and your Support Contact (a family member or caregiver) to review and sign.
Step 3: Schedule your "About You Session"
You and your Support Contact will meet with the Matchmaker for a 45-minute in-person conversation. We’ll learn about your background, lifestyle, friendships, work or school, and the kind of person you’d like to meet. We’ll also get to know your Support Contact so we can partner effectively. If we all agree Special Match is the right fit, we’ll move forward.
Step 4: Approve Your Match Profile
Based on your About You Session, your Matchmaker will create your Special Match Profile — including your photo and the background details you’d like to share. Once you approve it, the matching process begins!
Step 5: Receive Your Match
Your Support Contact will receive the Match Profile of your potential match, including their Support Contact’s information. If both of you are interested, your Support Contacts can connect to arrange next steps.
Step 6: Go on Your Date
We encourage in-person meetings whenever possible, but Zoom introductions are also an option. Either way, we ask that your Support Contact quietly “shadow” the first date (a fly-on-the-wall distance is ideal!) to provide reassurance and post-date feedback.
Step 7: Share Feedback
After the date, you and your Support Contact will share feedback with your Matchmaker. This helps us celebrate successes, learn from experiences, and keep improving future matches.