Alex Alexiou loves helping people and having a positive effect on the lives of others.

That is why he began working with the Department of Human Services SA’s Disability Services.

“I have always been interested in human services and I had a background and going into disability was just a natural pathway for me, really,” Alexiou said.

“It’s turned out fantastic and I love it.

“The best part of my job undoubtedly is positive client outcomes. 

“When we really have a positive influence on somebody’s life who you’re working with, it is extremely rewarding and it’s why we do it.”

Now, after spending the past six years giving up his time for other people - including the past two facing challenges that a global pandemic brings - Alexiou is set to receive a special thank you.

The Disability Services worker and lifelong Crows fan is being recognised for his selfless work by the Adelaide Football Club.

Alexiou, along with Woodville High School teacher Michael Grant, is being given the chance to access a complimentary ticket to the Crows’ Round Seven match against GWS at Adelaide Oval.

It is part of the Club’s way of saying thank you to public sector nurses, doctors, paramedics, police officers, human services frontline workers and teachers for their work during the pandemic.

Alexiou was grateful to the Club for recognising the frontline workers who had sacrificed a lot due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We had to endure several lockdowns and innovate new ways of keeping people engaged and keeping people in the social sphere that was still healthy and positive,” Alexiou said.

“I’m a born and bred Crows supporter and I’m always going to be a Crows supporter.

“I think it’s a great gesture from the Adelaide Football Club and it’s very special for us.”

Grant, who has been a teacher for the past decade, said the best part of his job was helping students develop.

He was looking forward to cheering on the Crows on Saturday.

“Because we were not seeing the students face-to-face, we’ve had to really diversify what we are doing. It’s been stressful, but also positive,” Grant said.

“I enjoy having a positive relationship with students and being able to interact with them on a daily basis and seeing what’s happening in their lives and what they want to share back.

“I’ve been a Crows supporter since day one, Mum and Dad got me involved and we’ve been going ever since rain, hail or shine.

“I wouldn’t change it for the world and now I’ve got my son coming with me.

“It’s been a tough couple of years, so it’s just nice to have something given back to us.”

Public sector workers will also have the opportunity to purchase two more tickets at half price, while having the option of attending a second home game later in the season.

Frontline workers should have received an email with details on how they can register their interest in the initiative, which is being supported by the South Australian Government.

Adelaide plays GWS at Adelaide Oval on Saturday at 1.40pm.