Safety & Expectations
Safety is not an add-on. It's the foundation.
Find Love Safely was created because safe, respectful relationship support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities didn’t exist in the way families needed it to.
Safety is woven into every part of what we do — from matchmaking and coaching to communication and community events — while still honoring independence, dignity, and choice.
Our Approach to Safety
Thoughtful. Proactive. Human-led.
We believe safety is most effective when it is:
- Built into the process
- Reinforced through education
- Supported through relationships
- Balanced with autonomy
Rather than relying on technology alone or rigid rules, we focus on human connection, preparation, and ongoing support.
Intentional Matchmaking
Safety begins before any introduction is made. Our matchmaking process includes:
- Intentional onboarding and information gathering
- Consideration of readiness, communication style, and goals
- Thoughtful pacing — never rushed
Matches are made because they make sense — not to meet a quota or timeline.
Safety and dignity go hand in hand.
We believe adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve opportunities for connection that are both safe and empowering. At Find Love Safely, safety doesn’t mean restriction — it means preparation, support, and respect.
Education & Skill-Building
Knowledge builds confidence and safety.
Through live virtual workshops and coaching, members learn about:
- Healthy relationships and boundaries
- Consent and communication
- Online and in-person safety
- Handling rejection and big feelings
- Asking for help when something feels off
Education empowers members to make informed choices — not fearful ones.
Coaching as a Support Tool
Extra support when it’s helpful.
Coaching provides a space for members to:
- Talk through dating experiences
- Practice communication skills
- Build confidence
- Address concerns early
Coaching is supportive and practical, not therapy, and is designed to reinforce healthy decision-making and self-advocacy.
Caregiver Partnerships
Informed, not intrusive.
We recognize the important role caregivers play in safety. Depending on the program and preferences:
- Caregivers may receive workshop summaries
- Caregivers may be included in certain communications
- Expectations around involvement are discussed upfront
Our goal is collaboration — while keeping members at the center of their own experience.
Clear Boundaries & Expectations
What Find Love Safely does and doesn’t do.
Clear boundaries help keep everyone safe and supported.
We Do
- Support safe, respectful connection
- Provide education and guidance
- Encourage communication and self-advocacy
- Address concerns thoughtfully when they arise
We Do Not
- Guarantee matches or outcomes
- Replace therapy or crisis services
- Monitor private relationships beyond our scope
- Override a member’s autonomy without cause
When Extra Support is Helpful
Coaching as a resource, not a requirement.
Dating can bring up big feelings — excitement, disappointment, anxiety, and growth. Coaching sessions provide a supportive space for members to process experiences, practice skills, and build confidence.
Coaching is:
- Included monthly in the Concierge Program
- Available as an add-on for other programs
Many caregivers find coaching especially helpful during transitions or moments of uncertainty.
New City Communities
Extra support during growth.
For members joining Find Love Safely in newly launched cities, we offer complimentary access to live virtual coaching workshops for the first three months as added support while local communities grow.
If a Concern Arises
If a member or caregiver has a concern:
- We encourage reaching out early
- Our team listens carefully and responds thoughtfully
- Next steps are discussed with care and clarity
Safety is a shared responsibility, and communication is key.