Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our services, matchmaking process and the support available along the way. Whether you’re exploring for yourself or someone you care about, we’re here to help you understand what to expect and feel comfortable taking the next step.
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General Information
Meaningful Connections is for adults with different abilities and special needs who are looking for friendship or a romantic relationship. We welcome individuals with autism, ADHD, developmental or intellectual disabilities, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and many other ways of experiencing the world. A formal diagnosis is not required.
Whether you have never dated before or you have past relationship experience, all are welcome.
No, it is NOT an app. Meaningful Connections is a personalized matchmaking service. We take the time to get to know each participant personally and thoughtfully match people based on compatibility— not algorithms or swiping.
Our service was created specifically for adults who may not find traditional dating apps accessible or meaningful. Every participant works directly with a matchmaker, and every introduction is carefully considered. Our founders are clinical professionals with decades of experience supporting this community.
That depends entirely on the participant. Some people are looking for a romantic relationship, while others are looking for friendship. We respect each person's goals and work with them to find the right fit.
Yes, everyone is welcome.
Matchmaking Process
Participants will book an initial matchmaking meeting through our website, fill out the intake form and complete payment.
Participants will also be able to book a workshop or 1-1 coaching session at an additional cost.
Each participant will meet with a matchmaker online to get to know you.
The matchmaker will learn about you and you will learn more about the process and what to expect.
No. A diagnosis is not required. What matters most is that you're interested in building meaningful relationships and are ready to participate in the matchmaking process.
Absolutely. Many participants are new to dating or relationships. We meet people where they are and offer support throughout the process.
No. We believe it's important to be honest. Genuine relationships can't be rushed or guaranteed. What we can promise is a thoughtful, personalized process and our commitment to finding compatible introductions.
Every participant's journey is unique. Some people may be introduced relatively quickly, while others may need to wait longer.
Matching depends on several factors, including compatibility and who is currently part of our community.
We look at people’s interests and hobbies so that participants will have things to talk about on their date. We also consider qualities such as: age, communication styles, personalities, values, relationship goals, support needs, sensory preferences, what type of relationship a person is looking for, and many other factors that contribute to meaningful compatibility.
We take into consideration the age, communication styles, personalities, relationship goals, support needs, sensory preferences, common interests, and what type of relationship a person is looking for; we focus on the factors that contribute to meaningful compatibility.
There isn't a set number. We prioritize quality over quantity and only make introductions when we believe there is genuine compatibility.
We are happy to continue to look for and send you matches until you meet someone you are interested in.
We will send an email to both participants to let them know a match has been found. We will also include the bio and photo of the person so you get a sense of who that person is.
Both participants must agree to meet before we share the contact information.
If you do not wish to go ahead with a match, that is completely fine! We will keep looking.
Yes, together with your matchmaker, you'll decide what feels most comfortable and appropriate for you. We will then include that in your personal bio.
Yes, that is an individual decision. You are welcome to ask a family member to join you on your date or book one of our community facilitators to accompany you.
If you choose to have a chaperone, please share that information with your match before your first meeting.
If a date or relationship doesn't work out, that's okay; it happens. Let us know, and we'll gladly continue finding matches for you if you wish.
Safety & Privacy
Safety is built into every part of our process. We personally meet with every participant before introductions are made, carefully review compatibility, and only share information with explicit consent.
The pace of the process is individualized. If a matchmaker feels that an individual needs more coaching or education prior to a match they will refer the participant to a workshop or one on one coach.
Community facilitators, family members, or caregivers can also be involved in meetups if desired.
Yes. Your personal information and bio are kept confidential and securely stored. Nothing is shared with another participant without your permission.
Absolutely. You are never obligated to meet anyone.
Participant safety is our highest priority. If any concerns arise before, during, or after a meetup, we encourage participants or their families to contact us immediately. We take all concerns seriously and will determine appropriate next steps.
When you are on a date, it is a good idea to have a support person available on their phone in case you need anything.
Families & Caregivers
Yes. With the participant's consent, family members, caregivers, or other trusted support people are welcome to be involved at whatever level feels comfortable. This may include attending the intake meeting, helping review potential matches, accompanying meetups, or simply providing support behind the scenes.
The participant can also decide whether the caregiver or family member should be included in any or all communication. This preference is shared with Meaningful Connections on the intake form and can be discussed at the initial meeting.
The level of a family member/caregiver involvement can be changed at any time.
We offer professionally trained Community Facilitators who can help plan and attend meetups when appropriate. Their role is to provide support while allowing genuine connections to develop naturally. An additional fee will apply.
Absolutely. You are never obligated to meet anyone.
Participant safety is our highest priority. If any concerns arise before, during, or after a meetup, we encourage participants or their families to contact us immediately. We take all concerns seriously and will determine appropriate next steps.
When you are on a date, it is a good idea to have a support person available on their phone in case you need anything.
Coaching, Workshops and Events
No. Coaching is optional but can be a valuable way to build confidence, practice communication skills, problem solving skills, and prepare for relationships.
The participant can also decide whether the caregiver or family member should be included in any or all communication. This preference is shared with Meaningful Connections on the intake form and can be discussed at the initial meeting.
The level of a family member/caregiver involvement can be changed at any time.
No. Our workshops and one on one coaching focus on practical relationship skills, communication, boundaries, dating, and confidence building. They are educational and supportive but are not therapy or counselling services.
Yes. As Meaningful Connections grows, we plan to offer social events, live interactive workshops, and speed dating opportunities designed specifically for our community.
Professionals
Absolutely. We welcome referrals from therapists, social workers, psychologists, support coordinators, developmental service workers, and other community professionals who believe meaningful relationships are an important part of quality of life.
Yes. We are happy to answer questions, discuss whether our service is a good fit, and arrange a consultation before a referral is made.