PICKAWAY COUNTY, Ohio — OhioHealth Berger Hospital is providing critical assistance to healthcare workers with the help of student participants from Project Search, an international program that connects high school students with physical or developmental disabilities with employers that provide internships aimed at teaching practical skills. While the pandemic caused a brief pause in the program, it’s now back in full swing at Berger.
The Project Search program at Berger offers nine-to-12-week rotations where participants experience different hospital units, allowing them to choose their preferred areas to assist throughout the year. Former participants have worked in areas such as radiology and imaging, logistics, nutrition services, same-day surgery, and environmental services.
Tracy VanHorn, Volunteer Coordinator at Berger, said that “many students with learning differences struggle to feel a part of their community. This program encourages students with developmental disabilities to see their true value and learn applicable skills while helping them forge connections within the community.”
Project Search students at Berger play a critical support role while gaining job experience and learning new skills. They are placed where the hospital has the greatest staffing needs, which allows nurses and technicians to focus on patient care. Most Project Search participants are high school seniors preparing for independent adulthood, and the responsibilities they assume help prepare them for that difficult transition.
“The students who work with us get real-world experience and the opportunity to apply to jobs within our health system upon graduation,” VanHorn said. “Because program graduates are already trained and familiar with the hospital, they can hit the ground running if they choose to accept a long-term role with us. It’s a win for them and for us!”
Applications for the Project Search program at Berger are available annually, beginning in August. For more information about Project Search in Pickaway County, or to inquire about applications, please contact the Pickaway County Board of Developmental Disabilities.