Project SEARCH is a one-year, business-led, unpaid internship program for students with disabilities age 18-21 in their last year of high school that takes place entirely at a host business site. It provides students who want to work a chance to explore careers and develop transferable job skills. The combination of instruction and immersion in the workplace prepares young adults with disabilities to make successful transitions from school to productive adult life.

Through the course of an academic year, Project SEARCH students participate in employment related instruction and rotate through two to three internships that are individually crafted to capitalize on each student’s individual interests, and vocational goals and potential. Each rotation lasts about 10-12 weeks.

Interns work closely with an on-site team, including an instructor, job coach and job developer. The team assists the intern until the task assigned can be performed independently. Agencies are available throughout the program year to provide vocational counseling and guidance. The on-site team, student, family, vocational rehabilitation counselor, and school representatives meet regularly to discuss issues, progress, and career goals.

Graduates are prepared to meet employer expectations and to move into a job development phase. They leave the program with a professional portfolio which includes a resume, solid professional references, recommendations, and real-world work experience.

Job placement is the final goal of the program. Students can accept a job offer at any time during the school year if a match is found (at the host site or elsewhere in the community) and the team is in agreement.

Once successfully employed, graduates receive follow-along services to retain employment. Project SEARCH has been instrumental in dramatically raising the bar for employment of individuals with disabilities. According to 2013-14 Project SEARCH data, these programs have placed over 73% of their graduates into employment.