Program

Project Search

Real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent living skills to help youth with a variety of disabilities make successful transitions from school to productive adult life.

INTERNSHIPS/WORKSITE ROTATIONS:

Through three internships the students acquire competitive, marketable and transferable skills. Students will build:

• Communication skills

• Social Behaviors/Workplace Etiquette

• Teamwork

• Time Management

• Problem-solving skills

• Financial Literacy

• Employability

• Self-Advocacy

Worksites are identified through a process involving the instructor, skills trainers, and business liaison. Worksite locations:

• Begin after completion of Volunteer Services Orientation.

• Include an on-site department mentor that interacts with the instructor, skills trainers, and intern giving constant guidance and feedback.

• Have interns work 4 hours per day with a 30-minute lunch break.

• Provides job coach and instructor support to interns.

• Introduce new skills as initial skills are mastered.

Departments Interns have participated in:

• Higher Grounds Cafe

• Maternity Center Welcome Desk

• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

• Food and Nutrition Services

• Creekside Cafe

• General Stores

• Transport and Logistics

• Laboratory Services

• Greenhouse/Groundskeeping

• Providence Imaging Center Scheduling

• Ambulatory Services (Day Surgery)

• Center for Child Development

PROJECT SEARCH MODEL INVOLVES:

• Classroom instruction of independent living skills, money and budgeting, workplace ethics and communication skills

• Extensive period of training and career exploration

• Innovative adaptations

• Long-term job coaching

• Continuous feedback from instructor, skills trainers, and PAMC department supervisors/mentors