Greenwich Hospital leaders and representatives from Abilis joined Project SEARCH graduates at a recent ceremony.
Greenwich Hospital celebrated its 2024-25 Project SEARCH program interns during a ceremony that marked a significant milestone in the lives of three program graduates: Lionel Davis, Nancy Stambaugh and Zabita Syangbo.
Now in its sixth year, Project SEARCH provides young adults with developmental disabilities immersive, real-world workplace training. The hospital partners with the nonprofit organization Abilis on the program.
“This is more than just an internship – it is a transformative journey,” Bob Blenderman, PA, president, Greenwich Hospital, said at the ceremony. “The participants’ dedication, perseverance and enthusiasm have been truly inspiring. Today is just the beginning of new opportunities and possibilities for each of them.”
Throughout the nine-month program, the interns participated in three rotations across departments such as Environmental Services, Food and Nutrition and Patient Transport. Abilis job coaches and hospital mentors helped interns develop valuable job and life skills, laying the foundation for future independence and meaningful employment.
“Our partnership with Abilis has been instrumental in creating an environment where learning, growth and inclusion are at the forefront,” Blenderman said. “It’s a relationship we value tremendously at Greenwich Hospital.”
To date, Greenwich Hospital’s Project SEARCH program has graduated over 20 interns, many of whom have gone on to work in the hospital and wider community.
