Project SEARCH, a workforce development program at UF Health Shands Hospital, is making a profound impact on neurodivergent students by helping them build crucial job skills and gain confidence. The program’s success is evident, with nine out of 16 interns hired by UF Health in just two years, showcasing how meaningful inclusion can lead to lasting change.
“Project SEARCH is an exemplary program that helps UF Health connect with some of the most important members of our community,” said Lisa Athearn, Ph.D., education and development advisor for UF Health. “It aligns with our mission, vision, and values, making UF Health a unique place. Programs like Project SEARCH allow us to connect to our community in real and impactful ways, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.”
Launched in Gainesville in August 2023 by the UF College of Medicine, Project SEARCH originated in 1996 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. The program utilizes the Vocational Fit Assessment to match students’ skills with internship opportunities, providing an effective pathway for career development.
A typical day in the Project SEARCH program begins at 8:30 a.m. with classroom sessions covering topics such as budgeting, workplace communication, and personal hygiene. From 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., students are assigned to hospital departments where they work alongside mentors who train them, just like new employees. Tyler Salas, the lead instructor for Project SEARCH with Alachua County Public Schools, emphasizes the value of these real-world experiences.
The results of the program speak for themselves, with most interns already hired at UF Health. Additional offers are expected by the end of the year. One remarkable success story is that of Danniell Chestnut, a Project SEARCH student who initially struggled with anxiety in unfamiliar environments. Over the course of two years, she gained confidence, learned to navigate public transportation, and now works as a unit technician at UF Health.
Salas, who previously taught history to students with disabilities, describes his experience with Project SEARCH as fulfilling. “I loved teaching history but wanted to teach more life skills that would have a lasting impact on my students,” he said. “When I learned about Project SEARCH, I knew I had to be part of it.”
The program’s impact is expected to grow, with plans to expand into new departments at UF Health Shands Hospital, including areas like data entry and nursing units. Leaders also aim to raise awareness about Project SEARCH, encouraging high school students with disabilities to view it as a viable path to independence and employment.
Those interested in learning more about the program can contact Tyler Salas at salasat@gm.sbac.edu, while UF Health departments interested in hosting interns can reach out to Lisa Athearn at lisa.athearn@ufhealth.org.
Gabrielle Parker is a Graduate Assistant at the UF Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, where she supports media outreach, content creation, and strategic messaging initiatives..
Editor’s note: This is the latest in a series of columns sponsored by the University of Florida.