Project SEARCH is an international program model that provides work experience to assist youth and adults with significant disabilities in making successful transitions from school to work. It is a one school year program that takes place entirely at the workplace  and consists of a combination of classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training through 3 worksite rotations. After the program ends, participants are supported with obtaining and maintaining competitive employment.

As a Charlotte Mecklneburg Program, Project SEARCH Matthews follows the CMS School calendar. The year begins in August and ends the following June. 

In preparation for employment and becoming contributing members of our community, our Interns learn the soft skills necessary to be successful in the workforce. Part of the curriculum taught focuses on interview skills, resume writing, self -advocacy & personal finance.

Our interns apply and interview for each internship.

Project SEARCH is driven by collaboration with many community partners: An Education Partner (CMS), host business (Novant Health), a supported employment provider (InReach), Vocational Rehabilitation and the local Development Disability organization.

•  Meet age requirements as follows

• Students following NC Extended Content Standards - be 18-21 years old on first day of the school year and completed curriculum requirements

• Be a student enrolled in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District.

•  Anticipate that this will be the last year of student’s services, and student will exit school services at the end of the program year.

•  Apply and meet eligibility for North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. 

• Once trained, be able to independently navigate to/from classroom and job site.

• Not have ANY behavioral issues in the classroom/community & be able to maintain appropriate behavior and social skills in workplace.

• Function without consistent on-site school administrators, nurse and mental health providers (counselor, social worker, psychologist).

•  Take direction from teachers, job coach and supervisors and adapt behavior as needed.

•  Be able to communicate effectively, with accommodations if needed.

• Have or gain the physical endurance to navigate to and from the classroom to the worksites in the hospital.

• Be prepared and willing to participate in work experiences at least 3 ½ hours per day 5 days a week.

•  Meet Novant Human Resource requirements such as current immunizations record

•  Have the desire and plan to work competitively in the community at the conclusion of the Project SEARCH program.

• Post-secondary training and internship experience – unpaid internships

•  Provides the opportunity to learn transferable work skills in a high-status business and work towards independence in daily and adult living.

•   Provides students with excellent academic instruction, based around transition  

•  Gain increased independence, confidence, and self- esteem

• Develop linkages to Vocational Rehabilitation and other adult service agencies

Project SEARCH Excellent Employment Outcome Award 21/22