Lenka (right) with program users Mark and Josh at the ABLE2 Annual Picnic
When you first meet Lenka, you notice her calm, radiant energy and the warmth of her smile. But behind the scenes, in between emails, voicemails, writing case notes and making client visits, she is at the heart of a quiet revolution; as a Social Worker of ABLE2’s Matching Program, Lenka is creating connections and building relationships that change lives.
Lenka began her journey with ABLE2 in 2021, where she led the Sibling Group and Build Community Programs. Now as a Matching Program Social Worker, she supports more than 70 active Matches, while managing a roster of individuals waiting to find an Ally. She conducts onboarding for new volunteer Allies and Friends, assessing their compatibility, facilitating the first Match meetings, and providing ongoing support to ensure that Matches find meaningful and lasting connections.
For Lenka, the work is deeply personal. Living with Cerebral Palsy, she understands firsthand the challenges faced by people with disabilities. “Having that lived experience improves the therapeutic rapport with my clients,” she shares. The unique blend of empathy and expertise integrated into her role is what sets Lenka apart.
When asked what she loves about her job, Lenka shares,
“I love seeing the change over time, especially between clients being on the waitlist to being matched. Seeing the changes in their overall wellbeing, mental and physical health is what I really love about my job.”
ABLE2’s Matching Program might sound straightforward— pairing a volunteer or “Ally” with a person with a disability or “Friend”— but the process is anything but simple. Lenka shares that each Match requires careful thought and consideration, from interests, communication preferences, accessibility, location, and comfort levels. When Social Workers find a potential Match, they are presented to the Ally and Friend and are given a chance to meet through a No-Commitment Meeting. This gives both individuals an opportunity to get to know each other, without committing to become a Match. “They almost always agree to Match after the initial meeting,” says Lenka.
Lenka recalls one of her most memorable Matches; a Friend who had been on the roster for a while. Living alone without family or community involvement, isolation had taken a toll on the individual. When Lenka introduced her to an Ally, the connection was immediate. “They do simple things together— play cards, chit chat, hang out at her building— but those weekly interactions bring so much joy to her life. She’s content now because someone shows up for her,” Lenka shares.
In another case, a Friend who had been on the waitlist long before she became a Social Worker, was finally introduced to an Ally within Lenka’s first month of taking him on her caseload. “They’ve been matched for two years now and they’re just having a grand old time together. It sometimes happens just like that. I check in with the Friend’s mom, and she’s found that his mood, energy, and overall happiness have significantly increased,” shares Lenka. The impact of the Matching Program creates a ripple effect— it’s not just the individuals with disabilities who benefit—it’s their families, volunteers, and the broader community who feel the impact of these connections.
Lenka also considers “saving a Match” among her accomplishments. Sometimes, when an Ally and Friend consider ending their Match due to availability conflicts or other circumstances, Lenka offers them assurance. “I’m able to find a common ground for them to stay together, and say ‘If you can’t meet every week, that’s okay.’ I suggest for them to do phone calls once a week, or meet every two to three weeks, and tell them that it’s okay. I remind them of the value of keeping the Match going,” shares Lenka. Even when matches close, either due to moving away or a major life transition, she finds that Allies and Friends keep in touch and offer a source of joy and social connection for each other. “ABLE2’s Matching Program lays the groundwork for them to have a lifelong friendship,” says Lenka.
Another rewarding aspect of her work is meeting such dedicated and compassionate volunteers. “The Allies, they’re all so fantastic. We have had so many great Allies in this organization like I’ve never seen before. The impact they have on the people we support, and seeing how this Match is also able to reciprocate its impact on the volunteers as well.”
While the rewards are immeasurable, Lenka admits the role has its challenges. The waitlist for the Matching Program can stretch up to three years due to a shortage of volunteers, and navigating these long waits can be emotional for the persons with disabilities on the roster. “The hardest part is supporting people who have been waiting for so long. I check in regularly, provide resources, and do everything I can so they don’t feel so isolated,” Lenka explains.
For those considering becoming a volunteer Ally with the Matching Program, Lenka offers these words of advice: “Volunteering is something everyone should try if they have the time and are willing to make that commitment. You learn a lot about others and about yourself. You’re able to take as much, if not, more than you give. Overall, it’s a really rewarding experience.”
Why Your Support Matters
For Lenka, ABLE2’s impact goes beyond individual matches.
“Though we’re a smaller organization, our work has far-reaching impacts—not just for the people we support, but for their families and the volunteers,” she explains. “The work that we do across all other programs impacts the community at large. When you support ABLE2, you’re not just helping one person. You’re creating a network of support, ensuring inclusivity, and belonging in the community,” says Lenka.
Your support, whether by donating, volunteering, or advocating for ABLE2, helps deliver life-changing programs and services for people with disabilities. Like Lenka, people like you are an important part of building a community where every person is seen as able, important, and valued.