Department of Developmental Services outlines Project Search internships for people with developmental disabilities

Department of Developmental Services staff described Project Search as a 10-month internship program that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities develop work-readiness skills and pursue employment.

"Project Search is a 10 month internship program," Speaker 1 said, explaining the program’s goal to guide participants toward employment and to build supportive relationships with host employers. Speaker 2 outlined the annual structure: a three-week orientation at a host business followed by three consecutive 10-week unpaid internships designed to build skills and let interns explore workplace interests. Speaker 2 added that programs typically begin in late August or early September.

Program participants and staff emphasized both the vocational and social benefits. A participant identified in the transcript as Speaker 3 said the program helped them make coworkers across several hospital departments and described it as "such an amazing feeling." Speaker 4, a staff speaker, said the program provides vital supports that let students "learn different fields and be able to get the support that they need to be successful." Speaker 1 noted that host businesses benefit from inclusivity and from creating a pipeline of interns who can become prospective employees.

The presentation described Project Search as a partnership model that involves host businesses, adult funding sources and education systems working together to improve employment outcomes for young adults with disabilities. The transcript specifically refers listeners to Department of Developmental Services employment services for more information; Speaker 1 closed by directing listeners to the agency website.

No formal motions, votes or legal citations were part of this presentation; the record contains participant testimonials, program description, and a website referral as the primary outcomes.