Project SEARCH

 

Project SEARCH is a nine-month high school transition program that provides training and education leading to employment for individuals with disabilities. It is a collaboration between interns, families and guardians, Essentia Health, Detroit  Lakes School District, Becker County and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Interns are immersed in the workplace and participate in three internships to explore career options while learning transferable job skills. The ultimate goal upon completion of the Project SEARCH program is competitive, integrated employment. 

Although Essentia Health is the host site, Project SEARCH belongs to and benefits our community. As a host site we look forward to developing the interns to become part of our community's  workforce.Tanner Goodrich, Senior Vice President, Essentia Health  

Laker Transition applicant undergoing a skills assessment in health care.
Laker Transition applicant undergoing a skills assessment in food service.
Laker Transition applicant being interviewed.
Laker Transition applicant undergoing a skills assessment in health care.
Laker Transition applicant undergoing a skills assessment in food service.
Five students sitting behind a Essentia Health table for their Project SEARCH signing.
Student holding up his acceptance certificate to Project SEARCH.
Student holding up his acceptance certificate to Project SEARCH.
Project SEARCH accepted students and the staff of Essentia Health gathered for a photo.
Student holding up her acceptance certificate to Project SEARCH.
Student holding up his acceptance certificate to Project SEARCH.
Student holding up her acceptance certificate to Project SEARCH.
Student next to a the Project SEARCH sign
Student next to a the Project SEARCH sign
Student next to a the Project SEARCH sign

Internship Examples

Materials Management
  • Inventory stocking and restocking
  • Shipping and receiving  
Environmental Services
  • Clean and sanitize
  • Prepare areas for use
Maintenance and Facilities  
  • Opportunities in electrical, plumbing, HVAC installation, repair and troubleshooting.
  • Completion of minor repairs
  • Complete inspections and stocking supplies  
Business/Administrative Services  
  • File, type and organize  
  • Assemble materials and stock  supplies
  • Assist with accounts payable and accounts receivable
Nutrition Services 
  • Assist in meal preparation  
  • Deliver and/or serve meals  
  • Clean and sanitize  
Healthcare specific  
  • Assist with patient care comfort  
  • Set up patient rooms,  other treatment rooms,  stock supplies needed

Benefits of the Project SEARCH Model:

Be Part of the Program

Interested in participating in a Project SEARCH program? There are many ways to get involved: enrolling a young adult, helping young people gain skills needed for employment or becoming a host business site. Contact a member of the collaboration team to learn more.

Project SEARCH Team

Wendy Fritz
Wendy Fritz
Transition/PAES Facilitator
218-844-4760  
 
 
Rachelle Isaacson
Project SEARCH Instructor  
218-314-7600
Beth Hedstrom
Beth Hedstrom
Project SEARCH Skills Trainer