May Employees of the Month: Project SEARCH Graduates

For the May Employee of the Month feature, we are excited to highlight not just one, but four individuals! Every year, several youth enroll in the Project SEARCH intern program. Held in collaboration with Apollo Career Center and Mercy Health- St. Rita's, Project SEARCH is a high school transition program for high school students on an IEP that prepares students for work and assists with developing soft skills for the workforce. MaKenzie, Alex, Chloe and Cindy have been working hard in different departments at St. Rita's learning about soft skills, how to work on a team, and gain hands-on experiences in different areas of the hospital. Learn more about each of these interns below.

MaKenzie

When it came to describing her experience at Project SEARCH, MaKenzie had one word: life-changing. She gained friendships, confidence and, most of all, found her voice. MaKenzie shared that the biggest challenge has been "overcoming my fear of using my voice." Her family added, "She came in with using a communication device to talk, and now she's running around talking. You can't keep her quiet anymore." MaKenzie was offered a position in linens but waited until graduation to officially accept the position.

MaKenzie’s family reiterated the program as being life-changing for MaKenzie. It was the place where she truly found her stride and left a lasting impression on absolutely everyone she met. They never would have imagined that she would not only feel comfortable speaking to others but to give a graduation speech in front of a large group of people! She not only found work but gained friendships and connections outside of her family.

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Alex

Alex came into Project SEARCH eager and with an open mind. One of the biggest things he has learned in the program is budgeting. Alex enjoyed his internships and quickly knew that he wanted to work in the kitchen. Through his dedication at Project SEARCH, Alex proved himself to be such a vital asset that he didn't even need a third rotation—he was offered a permanent position during his very second internship. He gladly accepted and is now a proud, official employee in the Mercy Health dish room! Alex shared that he loves his job and is doing well with a month under his belt now.

Alex’s family shared that program was great for Alex. His dad shared, "his communication has gotten better, I think. He seems like he's grown up a little bit and he's enjoying what he's doing." Alex's family also hopes more people learn about Project SEARCH and explore it. Project SEARCH is a great opportunity to learn about jobs and supports available that people might not have been aware of previously.

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Chloe

Chloe has explored several interests during her time with Project SEARCH. She shared that during the internship she learned "how to write checks and how to pay bills. I just learned how to live like an adult and, you know, we can also live as humans, too." Chloe soon discovered that the program was a massive catalyst for her personal growth, helping her unlock a clear vision for her future. Chloe has shared that she wants to help others and has started working with Marimor Industries HPC services to do just that. Her natural empathy and newfound confidence have inspired her to pursue a career as a social worker—a field where her gifts will truly shine.

Chloe’s family shared that Project SEARCH has been a positive "night and day" experience for Chloe, helping her to develop friendships and expose her to opportunities she might not have known otherwise.

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Cindy

Cindy walked into Project SEARCH not really knowing what to expect from the program. Ultimately, she is glad to have taken part in it. Cindy participated in the physical therapy, women's wellness and patient transports internships. Of the three, she liked patient transport the most. Cindy is currently working with a job developer to apply for positions at Mercy Health-HHS and other places as well.

Cindy’s family shared that they have seen so much growth and confidence in her as a result of the program!

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While not all interns go on to work at Mercy Health, 21 individuals who receive county board services are currently employed at HHS-Mercy Health. Of these 21, 16 are graduates of Project SEARCH spanning from the first year of the program in 2013 to 2026. That alone shows the impact of the Project SEARCH program and the commitment by Mercy Health-HHS to be an inclusive employer!