Project Search 2011: eight students whos success inspired us

We are blessed to be a part of Project Search, to get to know these students and to watch them succeed. Just like 2010, it was an easy decision for us to offer employment to these young professionals – they continue to teach and inspire us as well as contribute to our mission and organizational success. Project Search graduates have gone on to work in our operating rooms, restocking supplies, in our labor and delivery unit helping to deliver meals, and elsewhere throughout the hospital. They are valuable members of our team of caregivers, bringing good help to those in need.

In 2011, 8 new students successfully completed the program, earning their high school diplomas as well as vocational skills.

Project Search is a national program focused on helping young people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD describes people who are challenged with normal social interactions and interests. People with ASD often have trouble finding employment and being self sufficient. Nationally, as few as 40% of young people with ASD finish high school and find a job. Nationally, Project Search Students are successful more than 80% of the time.

The mission of Project Search In Richmond Virginia is to help young people with ASD gain professional and vocational skills with the end goal of finding meaningful employment.

In Richmond, Project Search is supported academically and structurally by Virginia Commonwealth University’s department of rehabilitation services, the Commonwealth of Virginia and local school districts.

Bon Secours Virginia Health System – specifically St. Mary’s Hospital – serves as the vocational sponsor. Accepted students agree to leave the school system and join the Project Search curriculum. In the Project, they spend their days at St. Mary’s, splitting their time equally between classroom work and internships in various departments.

In 2010, Bon Secours participated in the first year of Richmond’s Project Search program. You can watch that graduation video here.

Please join us in congratulating the 2011 class of Project Search!

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