Project SEARCH gives young adults living with disabilities experience in the workforce

BERLIN, Md.- “For like people who need help and stuff, they should go out and try to get into this program because it’s really fun and really exciting,” Abu-Zaid said.

Stocking shelves, cleaning, and preparing meals; that’s what the average workday consists of for Ashley Abu-Zaid.  Yet, her passion lies in the kitchen.

She’s just one of Worcester County Public School’s student interns a part of Project SEARCH. It’s a national program allowing young adults with disabilities the opportunity to get real world job experience. “The most beautiful part about Project SEARCH is that they’re integrating themselves into a new world that can be really scary for them. This program allows them daily interactions in a workplace which is very different from a school,” WCPS Chief Academic Officer for Grades 9-12 Dr. Annette Wallace said.

October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month, raising awareness on the employment needs and successes of individuals living with disabilities.

Ashley works in the cafeteria at Atlantic General Hospital, one of the first organizations to partner with the local initiative. AGH Human Resources Director Alicia Warren said not only are the interns helping with the lingering staffing shortages the health care system faces but so much more. “I think probably the most challenging thing is seeing them leave at the end of the school year because they really form really great bonds with our team here. It’s really hard to see them go,” Warren said.

Wallace added that these students are shattering the stigmas around disabilities and showing everyone their exceptional abilities. “Certainly, throughout history and time, the students highlighted a part of this project are students that have been the most marginalized and most vulnerable,” she said. “The more programs that we have like Project SEARCH, the more we can extend it out and the stronger it makes this community as a whole.”

Ashley has plans of someday working in a restaurant or becoming her own boss, cooking alongside her family. She told 47ABC the program has also taught her the importance of teamwork. “We show teamwork regardless of our disability and we work good together. It’s super fun,” Abu-Zaid said.

Worcester County Public Schools said they have many students wanting to become a part of the program but finding community partners can often be a challenge. They’re looking to increase their outreach efforts to get more organizations involved.

For those interested in partnering, you can contact the district’s Special Education Department.