Young adults with disabilities graduate from Project SEARCH

RICHLAND, Miss. (WLBT) - Six young adults with disabilities are on their way to getting a job in their community.

The graduates were celebrated during a ceremony Wednesday, marking their graduation from Project SEARCH.

The nine-month employment initiative is administered by the Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) and prepares individuals for real life work experiences.

More than 200 individuals with disabilities have graduated from Project SEARCH Mississippi since it launched at UMMC in August 2018.

The program takes place in the workplace.

This was the first time SIEMENS ENERGY hosted it.

Each graduate had secured an interview for a job in their community by the end of the program.

Officials with MDRS tell 3 On Your Side that they have received updated guidance from federal partners about how they fund Project SEARCH.

This guidance clarifies that MDRS cannot be the sole funding source for the program.

While they work with their partners to find funding solutions, MDRS officials say they remain committed to the purpose of the program.

MDRS is committed to assisting those with disabilities across the state and communicating any program changes through a consistent and positive message. Jennifer Gray, Director of Office of Communication, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services

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