Project SEARCH

Photo of Project SEARCH

Web site:   https://centerontransition.org/projects/search.cfm

Project SEARCH is a one-year high school transition program that provides skills training and work experience for young adults with significant disabilities ages 18 to 22. Conceived initially to solve hospital staffing challenges and to increase employment opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities, this program uses a business model that provides one point of entry for youth with disabilities, streamlines resources for schools and community organizations, and becomes a win-win situation for all involved. The cornerstone of Project SEARCH is total immersion in the employer agency, with a typical day involving onsite classroom instruction in employability and independent living skills, participation at a worksite rotation, lunch with co-workers, and feedback from the instructor. Project SEARCH was launched in the private sector in 1996 and currently has over 600 worldwide with private and public employers.

Project SEARCH is a partnership between school districts, host businesses, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, and an employment service organization. VCU is the Employment Service provider at the following local Project SEARCH sites:

  • Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center, Chesterfield County Public Schools, DARS, VCU-RRTC
  • Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital, Henrico County Public Schools, DARS, VCU-RRTC
  • Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center, Hanover County Public Schools, DARS, VCU-RRTC
  • Ft. Gregg-Adams, Colonial Heights Public Schools, Dinwiddie County Public Schools, Prince George County Public Schools, DARS, VCU-RRTC
  • Ft. Eustis, Hampton City Schools, Newport News Public Schools, York County Public Schools, VCU-RRTC

PI(s):
Alissa Brooke
Key personnel:
Jennifer McDonough, Alissa Brooke, Crystal Hence, Austin Miller, Nancy Paul, Maria Medina, Trylanda Roane, Benjamin Rooney, Savannah Jackson, Charise Hill, Caitlynne Peters, Yinoris Drummond
Contact info:
Alissa Brooke
Email:admolinelli@vcu.edu