Otis Moran wasn’t familiar with Project SEARCH while he was a student at Watkins Memorial High School.
But his mom and his school intervention specialist suggested it might be a good fit.

Now several months into the internship program at Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS), he’s been working hard in his rotation in the hospital’s Maintenance and Engineering department — building furniture, helping with fire inspections and replacing ceiling tiles.

“I love the people (in my department) they are really patient and willing to let me try new stuff,” he said. “I love that I’m able to try new things I never thought I could do.”

Otis is one of 10 students participating in Project SEARCH this year.
In its tenth year, the program gives young adults with disabilities the opportunity to spend an entire school year at LMHS, gaining the training and soft skills they need to transition from school to adult life.

It is a partnership between LMHS, the Licking County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, the Licking Regional Educational Service Center and Greenleaf Job Training Services.

Throughout the year, students complete three internships in different departments of the hospital. They also spend time in the classroom, learning professionalism, money management and other life skills. They received certifications in First Aid and CPR and will leave the program with a portfolio that includes their resume, references, training certifications and examples of the work they completed, including photos of them on the job.

Their goal is to use those materials to get a competitive, integrated job in the community, or continue their education, after Project SEARCH ends.

Addison Dufford, a student from Licking Heights High School is planning to attend college, for social work or graphic design, after the program.
She’s been interning in the Culinary department, restocking items and cleaning tables and chairs. She said she has learned a lot about professionalism, as well as strategies to budget money and plan for the future.
“I’m getting work experience and meeting new people,” she said. “Really it’s getting me ready for the real world.”

Aiden Elliott, a student from Watkins High School, has enjoyed his experience interning in the Cardiology department. He would love to apply for a job at the hospital when Project SEARCH is over.

He’s been doing lots of detailed work — cleaning equipment, preparing patient rooms and restocking supplies — that he enjoys.

“I’m really proud of it,” he said. “I’m a lot more independent.”