UCP & Backus Hospital Project SEARCH

Contact Us To Learn More:
Christine Olbrys, 860-443-3800 x125, colbrys@ucpect.org

Purpose

This application packet aims to gather information for the Selection Committee’s evaluation of your eligibility as a Project SEARCH Intern. Project SEARCH stands out as a distinct program from traditional pre-employment initiatives. It incorporates both classroom learning, where interns engage with employability curriculum, and an intensive, full-time, unpaid internship in a business setting. Throughout this internship year, interns practice skills directly in the workplace environment. The ultimate goal is for interns to transition to full-time, competitive employment, with a minimum commitment of 16 hours per week. Family involvement is integral to the success of Project SEARCH, as they play a crucial role in supporting their adult child’s learning and skill development for competitive employment. This application facilitates the Selection Committee’s assessment of each intern candidate’s skills, abilities, and background. The Selection Committee, comprising representatives from the Steering Committee, the business site, and UCP, may contact parents, candidates, case managers, school staff, and/or employers for additional information.

Please Note:
* Prospective Interns who are QUALIFIED will be invited to Skills Assessment and Interview Day (June 20, 2024).
* To Parents & School Administrators: UCP can attend IEP meetings to further explore the benefits of this internship program for students.
* This is not an application for employment. Completing this application does not guarantee employment with Hartford Healthcare. Information included in this application will not be shared with Hartford Healthcare Department Supervisors. This is an application for participation in Project SEARCH, a unique transition program held at Backus Hospital, the program Host Business. Completing this application does not guarantee acceptance into Project SEARCH.

Project SEARCH Selection Criteria

An eligible Project SEARCH candidate must:

• Meet the 22-35 years of age criteria.
• Have completed the academic criteria for high school graduation.
• Have applied for Husky C and be eligible for Husky C and CT DDS.
• Have independence skills including personal hygiene/grooming, mobility, personal care, feeding, managing medication, and daily living.
• Demonstrate daily attendance, mature behavior, and acceptable social skills in the workplace.
• Take direction from supervisors and change behavior when necessary.
• Have the ability to communicate effectively.
• Participate in travel training.
• Utilize public transportation daily.
• Provide lunch or lunch money daily.
• Be considered appropriate for community employment by high school teachers and Transition Specialists.
• Pass background checks and show proof of updated immunizations.
• Fully commit to work competitively in the community at the conclusion of the Project SEARCH program.

Selection Process Guidelines

1. The Selection Committee will only accept fully completed applications, including all documents referenced on page 9. Any incomplete application will be disregarded.
2. If accepted and if a student is still under the purview of public schools, an IEP may be developed with the school IEP team. This is entirely the decision of the IEP team, not UCP or the business site.
3. The Selection Committee will check references in this application and based on the information provided, will invite “qualified” applicants to Assessment Day.
4. On Assessment Day (June 20, 2024, time and place TBD), applicants and a family representative will meet the Project SEARCH team and undergo several “skill assessments” as well as a mock interview.
5. As soon as possible after Assessment Day, applicants will be notified of whether they will be invited to join Project SEARCH.
6. If accepted, the intern must be able to pass a criminal background check, a TB screening, and verify updated vaccines including MMR, Varicella, and Influenza. If vaccinated against COVID, the intern must show proof.