Project SEARCH

Project SEARCH is an exciting and innovative new program that provides work and career development opportunities for adults and students with disabilities. It is modeled on a proven, business model as a win-win initiative for employers, service providers, educators, and individuals with disabilities who want to reach beyond the traditional jobs that are usually available to them. 

Now operating in eight other states (and England, Scotland, and Austria), Project SEARCH is piloting a Maryland site in Baltimore with a partnership including The Arc of Baltimore; The University of Maryland, Baltimore; the Baltimore City Public School System; and the Division of Rehabilitation Services.

Project SEARCH has two primary components: an Adult Employment Program and a High School Transition Program.

The Adult Employment Program: The Arc of Baltimore serves as the single point of entry for adults with disabilities seeking new job opportunities. The Adult Employment Program coordinator identifies current job openings and assists potential candidates with the recruitment process at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. The goal is to refer qualified candidates with open positions at the University in a variety of settings. The Arc provides on-the-job support (i.e. job coaching/training) and develops adaptations or accommodations that may be necessary for any selected Project SEARCH job candidate to master the given job requirements. The Arc also provides on-site job retention staff, thereby creating a unique support system where people with disabilities can be successful and productive employees with opportunities for advancement and a career path.

High School Transition Program:  The High School Transition Program is a one-year education and internship program for students with disabilities who are in their last year of high school in Baltimore City Public Schools. The program targets students whose main goal is to obtain a job with competitive pay. Scheduled to begin in the fall of 2008, the program takes place at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Students immersed in the workplace will learn through continuous feedback and application of new skills.  They will attend class at the University and be instructed in employability and independent living skills for one hour each day. The balance of each day then is spent in the intern placement.

Participants working as unpaid interns have the opportunity for placement in three to four worksite rotations at various sites on campus throughout the school year. Each will have the opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable work experience. Students are given support through on-site, on-the-job coaching and worksite accommodations through The Arc, in cooperation with a Special Education Teacher and Aide provided by the school system. Individualized job development and placement will begin after the students have successfully completed the program and the intern rotations are completed. Every effort will be made to place all graduating students in meaningful employment.

For any questions, or to find out more information about either Project SEARCH program, please contact Joanna Falcone, Director of Project SEARCH at
410-706-5174, or by email at jfalcone@arcofbaltimore.org.