Workmates to Soulmates: A Heartwarming Supported Employment Story
Supported Employment is filled with positives for people with disability. For Jessica and Matt, an unexpected bonus came their way…
Jessica and Matt are not just teammates at Endeavour Foundation’s Business Solutions site in Maroochydore.
They have also found love while working together.
As supported employees in a busy manufacturing team, their connection grew over time, leading to an exciting new chapter – they are now engaged!
New Jobs, New Beginnings
Jessica began working at Endeavour Foundation’s Maroochydore site in 2014, and Matt joined a few years later.
“My auntie found the job for me, she told me to come along, and I got the job straight away,” Matt said.
“I did not know anyone at first, but everyone was so welcoming.”
Jessica had a similar story, stating that she got the job through a friend who used to work at the site.
Matt was excited the first time he saw Jessica.
“Yeah, I remember when I first saw her,” he said, grinning.
Sparks Fly at ABBA Event
One of their Employment Coaches, Sue Haddrick, remembers the moment Matt and Jessica became a couple.
“It was about four or five years ago. We went to an ABBA tribute concert with the team, and I saw Matt and Jessica sitting together, really enjoying each other’s company,” she said.
“It was clear they had become an item.”
Labelled with Love
At work, Matt and Jessica are a great team.
“They often work side by side – they are experts at putting multiple labels on bottles, which is a lot harder than it looks,” Sue said.
“When COVID hit, the staff had to take over the tasks because the supported employees couldn’t come in.
“We quickly learned that labelling without bubbles and creases is tricky. Matt and Jessica do it perfectly every time.”
Matt has also gained new skills during his time with Endeavour Foundation.
“I have developed my skills on the forklift. I had my ticket already, but now I get to use it regularly,” he said.
Jessica enjoys helping with events.
“I like organising things like ‘A Day for Daniel’ and Christmas in July,” she said.
Popping the Question
Matt and Jessica share a home together, just a short walk from their workplace. It was the perfect setting for Matt to propose.
“Matt asked me, and I said ‘yes’,” Jessica said with a smile.
“Then he bought me a ring.”
Matt said the couple is planning to get married in the summer of 2025 or 2026.
“We will invite friends and family and go on a honeymoon. We are not sure where yet, but as long as there is a spa bath, we are happy!”
Busy Hands, Full Hearts
When asked what he enjoys most about his job, Matt replied, “I am just happy as long as I am busy.”
“We get certificates for long service, and Matt recently got his five-year certificate. We have both been awarded Worker of the Month,” Jessica added,
Sue encouraged those who are interested to come and join the team.
“We are always looking for people to come along and see what we do. There are so many opportunities here for people to learn new skills,” she said.
Jessica sums it up perfectly…
“My favourite part is being with Matt at work. But we have a rule: whatever happens at work, stays at work, and whatever happens at home, stays at home,” she said.
Find a Job You Love
Endeavour Foundation is one of Australia’s largest employers of people with disability.
Our various dedicated employment pathways can help you to reach your career goals, whatever they are.
Find a job you love… and perhaps even find love itself.