Project SEARCH graduations highlight workforce inclusion, employment success

GREEN BAY – Project SEARCH, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and local employer partners held graduation ceremonies this week, celebrating the young adults with disabilities who have completed hands-on internship experiences and are transitioning into the workforce with valuable job skills and real-world experience.

“The heart of what Project SEARCH is all about is people coming together to support one another, to open doors for one another and to create opportunities…” said WDA 5 Supervisor Marissa Lautenbach. “What we hear again and again from Project SEARCH participants is that this experience is about more than just a job. It’s about confidence. It’s about connection. It’s about discovering what you’re capable of.”

Project SEARCH continues to expand opportunities across Wisconsin in health care, hospitality, manufacturing, education, transportation and other industries.

In Green Bay, graduations were held for those who completed internships at HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, Emplify Health and Aurora BayCare Medical Center, gaining experience in roles related to patient support and operational settings.

“During my 30-year career in the pharmacy here, nothing has given me greater joy than being a part of Project Search,” said Nicole Lavine, who serves as a supervisor for Project SEARCH interns in HSHS St. Vincent’s pharmacy. “In the pharmacy department, interns become an important part of our daily operations, working alongside myself and our pharmacy staff and learning many of the important responsibilities involved in pharmacy technician work… Our interns approach each task with dedication, curiosity and a willingness to learn. Beyond those skills that they have gained, they have also brought something equally valuable to our department — positivity, hard work and a pride for a job well done. They have reminded us all that success is not measured only by what you know one day, but by your willingness to learn, grow and keep trying.”

For some Project SEARCH participants, an internship can evolve into employment.

“My experience with Project SEARCH impacted me in so many ways…” said Julia Delcore, a 2019-20 Project SEARCH graduate who is now employed in HSHS St. Vincent’s pharmacy. “It has helped me gain confidence in my abilities, learn to ask questions when needed and interact with colleagues appropriately.”

“Don’t ever let your disability get in the way of your job,” Delcore told this year’s graduates. “It is possible to be successful living with a disability. You just have to put some hard work into it and never give up.”