THE VALUED VOICE

On Oct. 25, Ascension Mercy Hospital and Project SEARCH were awarded one of the two WHA Foundation Global Vision Community Partnership Awards for 2022. WHA Foundation Executive Director Leigh Ann Larson was honored to be hosted by the group and to present the award.

Project SEARCH is a collaborative program preparing young people with significant disabilities for success in competitive integrated employment. This program provides real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent living skills, with the goal of helping to make successful transitions from school to productive adult life. Students’ progress toward their personal goals are assessed at regular intervals with their vocational coaches. Immediate goals could include improving time management, maintaining better focus or staying on task. After completion of the program, students develop longer-term goals based on employment options and living independently. Students in the program are also supported by business advisors, department managers and peer mentors during and after the internship process.