Project SEARCH: Analysis of Employment Outcomes for Students with DisabilitiesAcross Two Districts

Rehabilitation professionals have a major focus on competitive employment, which is a central component of adult life that provides not only economic benefits, but also a social network and enhanced self-esteem. The employment gap for individuals with disabilities has remained consistently high desp...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of rehabilitation 2021-10, Vol.87 (4), p.48-57
Main Authors: Davis, Mariya T, Park, Nicole M, Cumming, Ingrid K, Sheperis, Carl J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Educational systems
Employment
Job training
Rehabilitation
Self esteem
Social networks
Social work
Students with disabilities
Young adults
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Summary:Rehabilitation professionals have a major focus on competitive employment, which is a central component of adult life that provides not only economic benefits, but also a social network and enhanced self-esteem. The employment gap for individuals with disabilities has remained consistently high despite concerted efforts to provide access to quality job readiness training and a simultaneous increase in awareness of the value of diversity in the workforce. This study examined the outcomes of Project SEARCH, an employer-based transition program for young adults with disabilities that promotes partnerships among the school and community by utilizing a unique collaborative approach that brings the education system, employers, and rehabilitation services together to provide meaningful individualized employment experiences for students with disabilities. Findings suggest Project SEARCH appears to have the potential to address employment outcomes for young adults with various disabilities. Implications for practice and future research are also discussed.
ISSN:0022-4154