Project SEARCH is a one-year high school transition program for youth aged 18-22 with developmental disabilities. These students are working toward a CDOS Credential or Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential, along with competitive employment.
The program is a collaborative effort between the students, the University of Rochester Institute for Innovative Transition, ACCES-VR, ARC of Monroe, The Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong, and Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES. The focus is on helping students to develop and utilize new skills that will allow them to achieve competitive employment in the community. All necessary related services will be provided on a consultant basis and are directly related to the skills needed “on the job.”
The cornerstone of Project SEARCH is total immersion in a large business, five days a week, through training placements (internships) with a goal of competitive employment. Placements provide participants with hands-on work experience and teach them transferable job skills in real work settings to prepare them for employment. Participants are also taught how to use natural supports, such as co-workers and supervisors in the worksite placements, to help them with day-to-day duties.
Get more information on Project SEARCH here.