Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) and Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH) have welcomed their second group of Project SEARCH interns. This innovative program, launched last year with the Grand Erie District School Board and Norfolk Association for Community Living (NACL), is the first of its kind in Norfolk County and one of only 14 in Ontario.
Project SEARCH helps youth with intellectual disabilities gain valuable workplace skills. Interns participate in three internships throughout the school year, combining classroom learning with hands-on experience at NGH and NHNH. This year, seven students from Haldimand-Norfolk high schools will take part in internships lasting 8 to 10 weeks, guided by a teacher from Grand Erie and two job trainers from NACL.
(Pictured left to right: Hannah Ireland; Alaine Zufelt Crabb; Aiden Vandehaar; Neil Louden; Anthony Williams; Kyle Valade, and Joshua Nelson)
JoAnna Roberto, director of education with the Grand Erie District School Board emphasized: “At Grand Erie, we’re committed to fostering a culture where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Programs like Project SEARCH through community partnerships highlight our mission to create a sense of belonging by providing meaningful opportunities for all students.”
With 70% of students finding employment within a year of graduation, the program promotes inclusion and diversity. NGH and NHNH are proud to help interns build confidence and skills for their future. More updates on Project SEARCH will follow.
Written by Jeremy Hall