The Socorro Independent School District's collaboration with the Hospitals of Providence through Project SEARCH has seen another successful year, with a new group of interns completing their year-long placements. On hand to celebrate the completion ceremony were the interns' families and friends, proud to witness the strides made by these determined individuals, ready to enter the workforce. Evan Clifford, one of the graduates, confidently shared his anticipation for the road ahead: "I'm looking forward to getting hired," he said with optimism, a sentiment that mirrors the competitive edge this program instills.
Project SEARCH, an international initiative aimed at preparing adults with disabilities for integrated and competitive employment, boasts impressive results within the SISD. Last year, a remarkable 100% employment following the completion which eclipses the national average employment rate of 17% for individuals with disabilities Monica Gasca Project SEARCH instructor at SISD emphasized the transformative impact the program has on participants and their families, "Not only is this program changing that entrance in life, but it also really changes the dynamic and changes the families. They are now able to see their young adults as self-sufficient and working and just have a purpose in life," she told Socorro ISD News.
Dominic Comer, a Project SEARCH alumnus now employed in a hospital’s post-anesthesia care unit, expressed a drive to support not just the physical, but also the emotional wellbeing of patients, "I will be able to work here and be able to help out people, not just physically, but emotionally as well," Comer shared his altruistic aspirations, as obtained by Socorro ISD News. His commitment to patient care exemplifies the profound personal growth and professional readiness that the program fosters.
