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At United for Care, we believe in the power of connection. We know it's the spark that ignites a more exciting and vibrant life, filled with friends, laughter, and maybe even love.
For people living with disabilities, having the opportunity to connect with others opens a world of possibilities, with intimate experiences and strong social bonds. That's why we were thrilled to co-host the recent “Meet a Mate” event with One&All and Wondiverse!
Held at the One&All Hub in Rosebery on 13th of July, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. Decorations in shades of pink and red set a fun and flirty mood, with hearts twinkling from every corner. It was a night designed to break the ice, spark conversation, and maybe even create a love story or two!
If you missed the big night, fear not – we’re here to give you a full recap. We’ll even fill you in on all the details about our next “Meet a Mate” event in October, when we’ll be rerunning all the matchmaking fun.
Speed Dating with a Twist
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the speed dating sessions. But this wasn't your typical set of slightly awkward, five-minute encounters. The organisers at United for Care and One&All added their own unique twist with a variety of games and activities designed to help participants feel relaxed and get to know each other on a deeper level.
Instead of just reciting their hobbies, couples found themselves playing Connect 4 and going for the win with teamwork. The Connect 4 pieces were heart shaped, naturally!
Couples used their phones to film social media reels, taking turns to answer questions about relationships and dating with romance filling the airwaves.
A game called ‘stuck on you’ involved writing compliments on sticky notes and attaching them to the backs of the other guests. By the end of the night, everybody had a stack of reasons to feel good about themselves.
All these lighthearted interactions helped break down initial barriers and allowed genuine personalities to shine through.
Making Connections that Last
As the evening progressed, the conversations flowed. We spoke to several attendees who shared their highlights of the evening and what they enjoyed most. "I come to One&All on the weekdays, but it’s amazing to see the place filled with so many unfamiliar faces," shared attendee Sam.
Another attendee, Will. said “It’s great to be doing something completely out of the ordinary. I’ve met some interesting people, and I’m sure we’ll stay in touch.” The exchange of mobile numbers was a heartwarming sight.
Donnie, a United for Care participant, said, “I’ve just come out of an 11-year relationship and I’m ready to meet someone new. It’s great to have so many people in one place who are open to the idea of finding romance.”
Many left the event with a list of contact details and a newfound sense of optimism, excited about the potential connections they had made.
A Night to Remember
But "Meet a Mate" wasn't just about finding romance. It was about expanding social circles, building friendships, and feeling a sense of belonging. For some, it was simply a chance to get out and have some fun in a welcoming environment.
Sam said, “I could have stayed at home tonight, but coming out, doing something different and hanging out with so many great people is a much more enjoyable experience.”
The night culminated in slow dancing for those who felt a spark. Soft music filled the room as couples swayed gently, a picture of pure connection.
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Building a More Inclusive Future
"Meet a Mate" was a resounding success, and at United for Care, we're proud to have been a part of it. Events like these play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive world where everyone can find love, friendship, and a sense of belonging.
Katie Orfanos, the Social Events Manager at United for Care, said “There are so many amazing personalities in the room tonight. It’s really satisfying to pull off an event that’s just as bright and bold as the people attending it.”
Looking to the Future
At United for Care, we believe that with a little creativity and a whole lot of heart, we can help people living with disabilities find the connections needed to build full and rewarding lives.
The warm glow of "Meet a Mate" lingers, and we’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be hosting the event again on Sunday the 20th of October at the One&All Hub in Rosebery.
You can get the latest updates, sign up for the big night, and discover all the other fun-filled events United for Care is planning by following our Facebook and Instagram feeds.
Join a SIL Provider with a Difference
United for Care is committed to building a community where people living with disabilities feel empowered and supported in their pursuit of meaningful connections.
But finding friendship and love is just the beginning. At United for Care, our Supported Independent Living (SIL) service goes beyond basic care. We help you achieve true independence, allowing you to build a rich social network and pursue your passions, all with the support you need to live life on your own terms.
Don't settle for ordinary care. Contact United for Care today and discover the difference – a more fulfilling SIL experience where connection and independence go hand-in-hand.
