Wed, Jun 12, 2024 at 01:34 PM

Marshall Medical Centers Welcomes New Interns through Project SEARCH

Marshall Medical Centers is proud to welcome a fresh group of Project SEARCH interns eager to embark on their professional journeys. This August marks the program's tenth year in Marshall County, a milestone that underscores its ongoing commitment to empowering young adults with disabilities through career development and life skill training.

This year, Project SEARCH welcomes 11 new interns, each bringing their own unique talents and ambitions. The program’s continuous success in Marshall County highlights its vital role in fostering an inclusive workforce and providing meaningful opportunities for young adults with disabilities.

Connor Campbell, one of this year’s interns, expressed his motivation for joining the program.

“I joined Project SEARCH because I needed to start somewhere,” he said. “I needed help finding a job.”

Campbell, who has Autism and ADHD, says he appreciates Project SEARCH’s partnerships with companies that are inclusive and supportive of individuals with disabilities.

“At the end of the day, you're still a person with thoughts, dreams, and emotions,” he said.

Looking ahead, Campbell is hopeful to find a job in the technology field.

“I honestly hope I gain some good skills and learn a few things,” he said. “I hope I find a good job and start my life.”

Marissa Free, another intern, is eager to gain essential life skills through the program.

“I joined Project SEARCH to learn basic life skills that I need,” said Free. “I hope I can learn to be more responsible.”

Free went on to express the gratitude she feels for being a part of Project SEARCH.

“I’m excited to be a part of Project SEARCH to meet new people and be a part of an accepting group,” she said.

Kira Galarza, a Job Coach with Project SEARCH in Marshall County, reflected on the program’s decade-long journey and its impact.

“The stigma of people who are differently abled is being changed,” she said. “Even though these people have a different ability, everybody has a place.”

She has been with the program since its inception and takes immense pride in her work.

“I have the best job in the whole entire world,” she stated with a smile.

As this year’s program begins, Project SEARCH and its interns are poised to make significant strides, reinforcing the belief that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has a valuable contribution to make in the workplace and beyond.