A Collaborative Approach to Vocational Achievement
What is Project SEARCH?
Project SEARCH™ is an internationally recognized program dedicated to building a workforce that includes people with disabilities. Its business partnerships benefit the individual, the community, and the workplace. The program was established in 1996 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center to address staff turnover in entry-level positions. The successful model has been replicated in more than 500 business locations across the globe.
Project SEARCH is a one-year employment preparation program that takes place entirely in the workplace with a primary goal of securing competitive employment for individuals with disabilities.
About Project SEARCH Norwalk
Our program takes place at Norwalk Community College where total immersion in the workplace facilitates the teaching and learning process, while acquiring employability and marketable work skills. Interns participate in three, 10-week internships to explore a variety of career paths. They work with a team including their families, a special education teacher, employment specialist, skills trainer, and NCC staff, to create employment goals and provide support during this important transition time.
18-22 years old
Completion of their High School Academic Program
Diagnosed with a disability
Potential & desire to work in a competitive employment setting upon exiting.
Project SEARCH prepares students for competitive employment through a combination of classroom instruction and job-skills training within the NCC campus.
8:30am: Classroom
9:30am: Internships
12:00pm: Lunch
(Pack or Purchase at Cafe)
12:30pm: Return to Internships
2:30pm: Debrief/Daily Reflection
3:00pm: Depart
(Interns take their own transportation to/from home)
Project SEARCH Curriculum
Interns receive daily instruction designed around the approved Project SEARCH focus areas:
• Team Building
• Workplace Safety
• Technology
• Self-Advocacy
• Maintaining Employment
• Financial Literacy
• Health and Wellness
• Preparing for Employment
Questions about Project SEARCH Norwalk or the application process?
Please contact:
Veronica Lenzen
Administrator
203-854-4127
lenzenv@norwalkps.org
Jessica Ireland
Transition Coordinator
203-667-9224 (Cell)
irelandj@norwalkps.org
Erica L. Dellon
Program Instructor
Norwalk Community College
475-258-9975
dellome@norwalkps.org
