Martin program to help developmentally disabled young adults transition to work, independence

Martin program to help developmentally disabled young adults transition to work, independence

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2010/aug/05/martin-county-program-to-help-developmentally-to/

Local young adults with developmental disabilities are getting the job and life skills training they need to succeed in the workforce thanks to a new learning program set to begin in Martin County this month.




Led by the Martin County School District and Martin Memorial Medical Center, the Project Search program aims to provide skills training and work experience for students ages 18 to 22 with disabilities ranging from autism to cerebral palsy.



After four years of research and planning, a kick-off celebration will be Aug. 11 at Martin Memorial Medical Center to acquaint students and parents with the faculty, staff and the facility. Attendees will get an exclusive sneak peek at the classroom furnished with new desks, computers and the latest technology, which is also on the hospital’s grounds.



“This experience is going to be uplifting for us and the patients, to be able to work alongside of individuals with unique challenges,” said Debbie Perez, supervisor of human recourses at the hospital. “It’s going to be great to see them shine.”



The state-funded program will help the students transition from high school.



Classes for the 12 participating students begin Aug. 24. A typical school day in the one-year program includes classroom instruction, where students will learn about being independent, responsible and punctual. They’ll also learn tasks such as how to use a cellular phone. Students will also get real-life job experience at the hospital. They will work internships in virtually every department, from the operating and emergency rooms to the nutritional and housekeeping departments.



“We’re all very, very excited. We’ve waited a long time for this for our students,” said Maryellen Quinn-Lunny of the School District. “Our hope is that after the program ends, the kids can apply for positions at the hospital.”



Hiring program graduates is already an option for the medical center, which hopes to hire the students upon completion of the course.



“Being one of the largest employers in the community, it’s important to keep on giving back to those who have helped us,” Perez said. “We want to diversify our workforce and want to see the students succeed beyond all expectation.”



Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged and Helping People Succeed have also been an integral part in the program’s launch on the Treasure Coast. Both organizations are providing their services and trained instructors and counselors for the students.



“We’re all collaborating for the success of the students,” said Keith Muniz of ARC. “This program provides a seamless transition from school life to adult life.”



Project Search was launched nationally in 1996 and has more than 140 sites in 42 states with private and public employers. Countries as far away as the United Kingdom and Australia have adopted the model.