On May 30, Goodwill of North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW) celebrated the graduation of six interns from its Project SEARCH site at Ascension Mercy Hospital in Oshkosh. This program is designed to help people with disabilities prepare for the workforce through a nine-month intensive internship.
Project SEARCH is a national initiative that partners locally with organizations such as Goodwill NCW, the Oshkosh Area School District, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Ascension Mercy Hospital, TMG Wisconsin (IRIS), and Lakeland Care Inc. The program aims to provide participants with job-ready skills and concludes with a graduation ceremony.
Kayla Countney, Manager of Mission Relations at Goodwill NCW, commented on the program’s success: “This is a testament to how a successful partnership and innovative thinking can provide opportunities for any student of any ability.” She added that it is rewarding to see students gain confidence and become empowered as they transition into the workforce.
Graduate Gabriella Faust expressed her satisfaction with the program: “I think it’s a really good program. A nice opportunity to go out and work with people.” Faust has secured part-time employment as a cashier at Fleet Farm.
The Oshkosh Project SEARCH site accommodates both students referred by local school districts and adults enrolled through the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. Interns rotate through various hospital departments to gain hands-on experience relevant to their career interests. Opportunities include training in facilities management, retail operations in the gift shop, food service in the cafeteria, or working alongside nursing staff.
Nationally, 72% of participants in Project SEARCH during 2022-23 found employment after completing the program. Since its inception at Ascension Mercy Hospital in 2016, 96 students have graduated from this site.
Goodwill NCW is dedicated to removing barriers to employment and empowering individuals within their community. More information about their mission can be found at goodwillncw.org.
