Project SEARCH
A path to employment for young adults with disabilities
Project SEARCH is a national program that GCE proudly offers at several community business sites across Northwest Florida. This nine-month transition-to-employment program helps young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities prepare for, obtain and retain meaningful jobs.
Interns spend the school year in a business setting where they gain hands-on experience through career exploration and non-paid internships, supported by professional instruction and job coaching. The goal: competitive, paid employment in the community.
What interns gain
Participants receive continuous feedback and support while building the skills needed for success in today’s workforce, including:
- Resume writing and job search strategies
- Interviewing and communication skills
- Technology and presentation skills
- Workplace safety and money management
- Customer service, time management and setting priorities
- Teamwork and self-advocacy
- Health and wellness, including stress management and healthy habits
Each site includes a certified instructor and an employment transition specialist to guide interns and partner with business leaders.
If you are a parent looking for opportunities for your teen or young adult with a disability, Project SEARCH may be the right step toward independence and employment.
Who can apply
Students are eligible for Project SEARCH if they:
- Are 18–21 years of age
- Have completed the high school credits needed for graduation
- Agree that Project SEARCH will be their last year of school district services
- Have an active case with Vocational Rehabilitation
- Can maintain personal hygiene, grooming, and daily living skills independently
- Can maintain appropriate workplace behavior and social skills
- Can accept feedback and adjust behavior when needed
- Can communicate effectively (with or without accommodations)
- Are willing to complete travel training and use public transportation when available
- Have prior experience in a work environment (school, volunteer, or paid)
- Can pass a drug screen, background check, and meet host business immunization requirements
- Are committed to working competitively in the community at the end of the program
How to apply
- Students are referred to Project SEARCH through their school district.
- Families complete and submit the application by the posted deadline.
- Students attend an interview and assessment day in early spring.
- A steering committee reviews applications using a structured scoring process.
- Acceptance letters are sent prior to the new school year.
For more information, contact Lisa Bloodworth, Senior Director of Transition and Support Services, at 850-281-3331 or [email protected].
Community partners
Project SEARCH sites operate in partnership with:
- Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa County School Districts
- Baptist Hospital
- Gulf Breeze Hospital
- Santa Rosa Medical Center
- Innisfree Hotels (Pensacola Beach and Ft. Walton Beach)
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Agency for Persons with Disabilities
Community partners
For businesses
Project SEARCH is a great way for businesses to build a strong, inclusive workforce. If your organization is interested in hosting interns or hiring graduates of Project SEARCH, learn how you can partner with us by contacting Lisa Bloodworth, Senior Director of Transition and Support Services, at 850-281-3331 or [email protected].
Accredited by CARF International
GCE has been awarded the highest level of accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International for Community Employment Services: Employment Support and Job Development.
