Project SEARCH at Ascension Seton is an innovative best practice for preparing and training young adults with intellectual disabilities for the competitive workforce. Through a yearlong internship, Project SEARCH offers each participant the opportunity to develop their vocational skills in a business setting, while building a solid foundation of professional experience.
Initially implemented in the Fall of 2007, Project SEARCH at Seton was the first of its kind in Texas. It is supported by a unique collaboration among business, education, rehabilitation and disability service providers. This innovative model was originally developed at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and has been replicated in 400 organizations in the U.S. and abroad.
This year, Ascension Seton had 45 total graduates across 5 Seton facilities. Our graduates had a combined 40,000 hours in rotations experiencing hands-on training in a health care setting, and 7,800 hours in employment skills training learning job skills that are applicable to many workforce environments, and establishing professional references.
We’re proud to say that of this year’s graduates, almost 75% have already transitioned into competitive employment both at Seton and in their communities. Since 2007, Project SEARCH at Ascension Seton has graduated 202 interns with a 91% employment rate both at Seton and in the community. Your support of Project SEARCH at Seton is making an immediate impact on the lives of our Project SEARCH interns!