Rochester, NY — Eight exceptional interns recently completed the Project SEARCH® program at Jewish Home, demonstrating outstanding growth, professionalism, and dedication throughout the past year in various roles within the organization.
In partnership with Heritage Christian Services, Jewish Home proudly hosts Project SEARCH®, a nationally recognized employment training program for individuals ages 18 to 35 with disabilities. The initiative provides participants with real-world job experience and essential life skills to support long-term success and independence in the workplace.
Brought to the Rochester area through the support of the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation, Project SEARCH® was launched at Jewish Home in 2018. Since then, the program has become much more than just a training initiative; it’s an empowering experience that helps young adults build confidence, gain skills, and overcome barriers to employment. It provides a structured environment, practical strategies, and mentorship that prepares interns to take on new challenges in both their careers and personal lives.
“I am so proud to be a part of this amazing program,” said Christine VanVessem, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Quality. “Three employees who completed our very first program year in 2018–2019 just celebrated their five-year work anniversaries with Jewish Home. I look forward to many more milestones like that. I’m also grateful to Mike King, President & CEO, for having the vision back in 2018 for Jewish Home to serve as the business partner with Heritage. Here we are, seven years later, with a thriving program that has positively impacted so many, not only the interns and their families, but our entire staff.”
A special thank you to Jessica Bellerdine, Jewish Home’s Project SEARCH® Coordinator, for her exceptional leadership and dedication in managing daily operations. Gratitude also goes to Susan Adams-Price, Director of Staff & Organizational Development, who serves as the business liaison and collaborates closely with Jessica to coordinate logistics and provide support throughout each 10-week internship rotation.
This continued partnership and shared commitment from both organizations ensure that the program remains a powerful, inclusive pathway for young adults entering the workforce, and an inspiring reminder of what’s possible through opportunity and support.
Jewish Home will be offering another Project SEARCH internship program this fall. To learn more or apply, please visit https://heritagechristianservices.org/services/employment-people-with-disabilities/project-search/.
