Fri, Apr 22, 2016 at 05:00 AM

Project SEARCH intern becomes employee in Marshall South cafeteria

“I can’t believe I’m getting to do this,” she says. “I love it. I’ve come out of my shell.”

Cassandra Cook celebrated with a big piece of cake in the hospital cafeteria where she is transforming from intern to employee.

The formerly shy student from Asbury High School couldn’t stop taking selfies and chatting with co-workers, family and friends who gathered to celebrate her new job as server/cashier in Marshall Medical South’s cafeteria.

“I could ask her to do anything and she would jump on it,” says Jennifer James, executive chef and Cassie’s new boss. “She takes pride in her work.”

Cassandra is one of 10 high school students who have worked rotations at Marshall Medical North and South this school year through Project SEARCH, a national program that targets students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help them shift into employment. She is the second in the group to be hired by the hospital. Four other students are now working at other participating businesses.

The Marshall County school system provides job coaches to supervise students on the job and stay with them until they become skilled enough to work independently. Students were selected from DAR, Albertville, Brindlee Mountain, Asbury and Douglas high schools.

Cindy Martin, job coach for Marshall County Schools, expressed gratitude for the chance given to students by the hospitals.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without Marshall Medical Centers,” she says. “Everybody has made them feel welcome.”

Cassie has worked in the cafeteria since February. On Monday she will be assigned to work the breakfast shift, requiring her to be there at 5:30 am.

James said she has been a welcome addition to the staff.

“You give them an opportunity and they pay you back with loyal service.”

Cassie’s grandparents, Harry and Margie Rains of Asbury, attended the celebration.

“We’re very proud of Cassie,” her grandmother added.