Project SEARCH is a 10-month on-the-job training program for individuals with disabilities that combines classroom work with internships.  The program is set entirely within the walls of St. Joseph Hospital and allows students to gain transferable skills that will help them to find competitive employment.  The PLUS Company Project SEARCH team, led by Jamie Gregoire, work together to bring a wide-range, of skills and experience to the program, greatly benefitting each student.

Leading the program for 10 years, Jamie brings an outstanding understanding of how to support our students from the program exploration phase, through the learning experience, and on to employment. Her co-workers say she epitomizes the goals of Project SEARCH. She never loses sight of the importance of fostering independent thinking, accountability, dependability, and rising expectations for our students. Her management of our relationship with St. Joseph is a major reason we have been so successful.

Vince Kelly helps create curriculum, delivers classroom sessions, and trains students in their internships. As a former sales and training professional, Vince focuses on helping students express their career interests, align their skills and knowledge to the requirements of a job, and explain their value to a potential employer. He particularly enjoys those “Aha!” moments when a hospital employee realizes that Project SEARCH students have skills and add value to the workplace.

New addition, Jesse Crapo, serves as an Instructor and Career Trainer. With more than 20 years retail management experience, including 9 years integrating people with disabilities into the workforce, Jesse infuses the program with a fresh look and new ideas. His ability to engage students in meaningful dialog about topics as diverse as hygiene, workplace relationships, interview skills and working in teams brings the classroom to life.