Matthew
“Matthew just wants an ordinary life, surrounded by friends. It’s the simple things that make him happy.”
Matthew is someone who, in his dad David’s words, “spreads joy.” He’s quick to assume the best in people, and everyone he meets has the potential to be a new friend.
Matthew.
“Matthew is an incredibly cheerful, friendly person, and that friendliness is contagious,” says David.
The 31-year-old has a learning disability and is currently supported by CCS Disability Action’s Waikato branch. He’s also employed as a caretaker at the branch – a role he enjoys and excels at.
“Matthew does a wonderful job of keeping our grounds neat and tidy. With his Support Worker’s assistance, he tackles things like cleaning the driveway gutters, keeping the paths clear for visitors, and recently planted some beautiful flax bushes in the garden. We really appreciate everything he does for us here,” says Branch Service Manager Kathy Harward.
He’s also a welcome presence for other staff. “Once you get Matthew talking, he’s very chatty. He brings a lot to our team,” she adds.
Matthew’s position is sponsored by Cambridge-based CSC Buying Group, a not-for-profit that provides member businesses with discounted products and services. He worked as a car groomer for the organisation for over ten years.
“I worked there at the time, but it wasn’t my idea; my boss suggested it,” explains David. “He knew Matthew and wanted to give him an opportunity.”
Matthew loved the connections he created at work, and being part of a team gave him a great feeling of purpose. When the market shifted and the group stopped purchasing cars, CSC Buying Group offered to sponsor him into work elsewhere rather than leave him without employment.
Founder/Director Craig Johnson knew Matthew was supported by CCS Disability Action and reached out to the branch to explore opportunities that would suit his skill set. CCS Disability Action jumped at the chance to take him on.
Matthew has been supported by CCS Disability Action for around ten years, initially seeking help to explore his options after school. He’s been flatting independently for much of that time – and recently took on a flatmate. For the past four years, he’s had support to help him live independently and stay connected in the community.
The CCS Disability Action team worked with his mum Judith, David, and Matthew to identify what mattered most to him. He now has a small team of Support Workers who spend time with him each weekday morning.
Every day typically holds something different. On Mondays and Thursdays, he works at CCS Disability Action for a few hours. Tuesdays are for cycling through the Community Trikes Programme at Cambridge’s Avantidrome – an indoor facility used by elite athletes and the community alike. On Wednesdays and Fridays, Matthew can be found at Interlock, a space where disabled people connect.
Wednesdays usually involve a cuppa and biscuit, accompanied by games and plenty of good conversation. Fridays are for “projects with a purpose” – crafting, building, sewing, and cooking, all while developing life skills and having fun.
In addition to these activities, Matthew and his Support Workers tackle the day-to-day life admin: meal planning, grocery shopping, cleaning, and laundry. Slightly less fun, perhaps, but no less necessary.
One thing that definitely ticks the “fun” box is his passion for hot air balloons. Every year, without fail, you’ll find Matthew at the Balloons over Waikato event, where balloons and pilots from around New Zealand and the world take to the skies. A flight of his own – gifted by his parents for his 21st birthday – was a bucket list moment.
Matthew with his gold medal.
While Matthew’s life is already full, it’s his volunteer work with Special Olympics that gives him the most meaning. He volunteers weekly in the pool, helping teach swimming to disabled people who are just starting out. Swimming has long been a passion – he won gold in butterfly at the 2015 Special Olympics World Championships. It’s a sport he’s loved since he first dipped his toes in the pool at age seven.
He does it because he wants to give back and inspire others to enjoy the sport that has brought him so much joy and opportunity.
“He likes to help, so it gives him a lot of happiness,” says David.
David and Judith appreciate the support Matthew receives, as it allows him to live a life of self-determination and pride.
“Matthew just wants an ordinary life, surrounded by friends. It’s the simple things that make him happy,” says David.
Judith agrees. “Happiness, love, friendship – those are the things he is after,” she says.
When asked how that aligns with the life he’s living now, they both agree – he’s experiencing all of the above.
Experiences Matthew is more than deserving of.
Empowering disabled people in New Zealand: The CCS Disability Action story
CCS Disability Action is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest pan-disability support and advocacy organisation, working alongside disabled people, their families and whānau since 1935. We support people with all types of impairments, offering services that promote choice, control, and community inclusion.
Matthew’s story highlights how support that is tailored to what matters most to the individual can empower them to create a fulfilling life. It reflects the diverse ways we partner with disabled people to champion their aspirations and wellbeing.
As a leader in disability service provision, advocacy, and information sharing, our vision is to see every disabled person and whānau hauā interwoven into the lives of their whānau and community.
Want to learn more or support our work?
Get in touch with your local branch to find out more about our work across Aotearoa New Zealand. There are many ways to support CCS Disability Action – from donating, volunteering, or even becoming a foster carer. Every action helps us build a more inclusive society for everyone.