The STRIDES program at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital - Franklin Campus is designed to help students with special needs gain work experience and prepare them for the workforce. The STRIDES students from Oak Creek High School are a welcome addition to the hospital staff.
 
Several students work at Ascension Franklin each school year. The age of participants ranges from teenagers to young adults in their early twenties. Accompanied by a teacher, students work three-hour shifts, two to three days a week and accomplish skill-building, on-the-job training, and develop an independent connection in the community.
 
During this time, students develop important skills through working with hospital staff in various departments such as Environmental Services and the Emergency Room where they learn to make patient bags, clean, stock supplies and complete other important tasks. In addition to building physical skills, students build confidence with their improved social skills after interacting with hospital associates, and they benefit from positive experiences through goal setting and achievements.
 
This valuable work experience helps set the program participants up for long-term success. Upon program completion, these participants are better prepared for future employment in their community.