An international program that helps students who require additional support prepare for the world of work has expanded locally thanks to a partnership between Rainbow District School Board, the City of Greater Sudbury and March of Dimes Canada.
The inaugural group of interns for Project SEARCH Pioneer Manor participated in a signing ceremony on October 1, 2024, including, from left, Silas Trudeau, Deshawn Sacobie, Aiden Mclean, Gerrit Train, Michelle St. Martin, Joshua Lacelle, Maxkena Gauthier and Tristan Audette.
Certificates of Internship were presented to the inaugural group of participants for Project SEARCH Pioneer Manor during a signing ceremony on October 1, 2024.
A transition-to-work program, Project SEARCH combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Students in their final year of secondary school develop skills required for entry-level employment.
Intern Michelle St. Martin first heard about Project SEARCH from an Educational Assistant at Confederation Secondary School. "It feels awesome," said Michelle. "I am thankful because I literally get a second chance at everything."
She added: "If I could give one piece of advice to future interns it would be to go ahead and chase your dreams because your dreams won't chase you back."
Deshawn Sacobie, also from Confederation Secondary School, is most excited to learn new job skills. "After this, I would like to do social work because I love helping people," said Deshawn. "I want to change people's lives."
In its first year at Pioneer Manor, eight students from Rainbow Schools will engage in three internships in various departments. The placements, which are eight to ten weeks in duration, are determined by student interest and skill level. Internships are guided by skilled, experienced staff including a teacher from Rainbow District School Board and two job trainers from March of Dimes Canada.
"We are honoured to be part of the extraordinary Project SEARCH program and to host a group of participants this year," said Aaron Archibald, Director of Long-term Care Services with the City of Greater Sudbury. "By providing an environment where all students can learn and grow, we not only support their skill development but also enhance the experiences of our residents at Pioneer Manor."
He added: "Project SEARCH benefits our entire community by promoting inclusivity and equipping youth with the skills they need to successfully join the workforce."
"We're thrilled to partner with Rainbow District School Board, the City of Greater Sudbury, and Pioneer Manor to offer these young students from Greater Sudbury the kind of on-the-job training and experience they need to build rewarding and successful careers," said Len Baker, President and CEO of March of Dimes Canada. "Today, we embrace the joy of what's possible. When partners come together to adapt programming to student needs, we all succeed."
Project SEARCH was launched in 1996 at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in an effort to promote a vibrant, inclusive workforce. There are now more than 600 Project SEARCH sites worldwide.
"I'm thrilled to learn that local partners will use their expertise and passion to expand the program to Pioneer Manor," said Erin Riehle, Director of Project SEARCH Cincinnati. "This is great news for the youth who will be able to participate, as well as for staff and residents, who will experience their gifts and talents. Congratulations to all."
"Project SEARCH is a tangible example of how partnerships benefit students," said Bruce Bourget, Director of Education for Rainbow District School Board. "I commend all those who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the program at the local level. The expansion will provide more students with the support they need to be confident, caring members of society."
He adds: "We thank the City of Greater Sudbury and March of Dimes Canada for joining with us to enable students to achieve their full potential."
