Taking the Next Step: Project SEARCH Graduation

Last month, we had the honor of celebrating three remarkable individuals who graduated from Project SEARCH.

Project SEARCH is a transition-to-work program for individuals with disabilities that is based out of Beacon Memorial Hospital. In partnership with ADEC and South Bend Schools, the program provides individuals with disabilities with a one-year-long program that combines classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training through workplace rotations. The experience helps participants build practical job skills, gain confidence, and prepare for long-term employment.

A Day Worth Celebrating

On May 29, graduates Leo, Aquarian, and Romello were honored during a ceremony held at the Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Family members, friends, community leaders like South Bend Mayor James Mueller, and representatives from ADEC, Beacon Health Systems, and the South Bend Schools gathered to celebrate not only the graduates’ accomplishments, but also the impact that Project SEARCH has had on their lives.

Before certificates were presented, several speakers reflected on the significance of the program. Trish Hutchison, the Project SEARCH Transition Consultant at ADEC, said, “This program doesn’t just change the interns, it changes the culture of the entire workforce”. ADEC’s President and CEO, Chris Kingsley, also touched on that point, saying, “Today, we are celebrating the belief that everyone has something to offer”.

The most moving moments of the ceremony came when the graduates themselves addressed the crowd.

Each intern spoke with gratitude for the people who supported them throughout their journey, speaking directly to families, teachers, mentors, and fellow participants. They shared things that they learned, moments of success, the challenges they overcame, and hopes for their future.

As Leo shared his appreciation for his mother’s “home-cooked meals” and unwavering support, many in the audience were visibly moved. Tears filled the eyes of family members, friends, and supporters as they listened to the graduates speak from the heart. With each graduate’s speech, the gratitude, the abundance of support, and the importance of the graduates’ support systems became even more evident.

Aquarian summed up the experience simply and beautifully, saying, “My favorite thing about Project SEARCH is making friends and learning new skills.”

The Ripple Effect

While those friendships and skills are invaluable, Project SEARCH offers something even greater. For 15 years, it has been offering the chance for individuals to realize their potential and pursue futures filled with possibilities. The program’s impact extends beyond the graduates, influencing families, coworkers, and the broader community while highlighting the value each person brings to the workplace.

This year, ADEC is proud to celebrate another graduating class and grateful to partner with organizations that make such a profound difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. The success of Leo, Aquarian, and Romello is a testament to what can happen when people are given the support, encouragement, and opportunity to thrive.