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Project SEARCH

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sitting at desk
Student smiling braces
disabled person working

 

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.

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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
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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].

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Community partners

Project SEARCH sites operate in partnership with:

 

*We are an approved provider with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and may provide services to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) participants.

Project SEARCH logo

Tri-county 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].

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Stories from Project SEARCH

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The banner includes a photo of four Project SEARCH leaders, alongside the headline "Fort Walton Beach Project SEARCH site recognized among Florida's top performers."

Fort Walton Beach Project SEARCH site recognized among Florida’s top performers

Among Florida’s 45 active Project SEARCH sites, only five earned the Florida Project SEARCH Excellent Outcome Award for the 2024-2025 program year, including Global Connections to Employment’s (GCE) site with Okaloosa County School District at Hilton Garden Inn Fort Walton Beach. Presented at the Florida Project SEARCH Annual Conference, the award recognizes programs that achieve […]

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The image shows 5 Project SEARCH graduates holding their certificates and 2 staff members. There is text that reads "Project SEARCH celebrates graduates."

Project SEARCH celebrates graduations for students with disabilities

Graduates across Northwest Florida are celebrating a major milestone after completing Project SEARCH, a transition-to-work program that prepares young adults with disabilities to enter the workforce. As one of the nation’s largest employers of people with disabilities, Global Connections to Employment (GCE) has established Project SEARCH sites at five locations across Northwest Florida. These sites […]

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The photo depicts a young man smiling and giving a presentation. The photo says "Project SEARCH Reverse Job Fair."

GCE to host Project SEARCH reverse job fair

Employers looking for motivated job seekers are invited to Global Connections to Employment’s (GCE) 3rd annual Reverse Job Fair! No table or setup is required. Area employers simply show up, visit tables and ask questions. Project SEARCH interns will display their resumes and showcase their skills on poster boards then share their goals for employment […]

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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.

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CARF International Accreditation