Project SEARCH Career Connection

We are excited to share that Riddhi is the first intern to work in our new Cardiac Rehabilitation Department! Riddhi helps maintain a safe and welcoming environment by sanitizing exercise equipment before and after patient use and keeping work areas clean and organized. She also assists with preparing and organizing patient folders, including labeling, filing, and assembling forms. In addition, Riddhi helps greet and direct patients and supports staff with clerical and operational tasks to ensure smooth daily operations. Her professionalism and attention to detail make her a wonderful addition to the department!

Please contact John O' Hara at johara@sussexesc.org or 973-222-1671

Project SEARCH is a one-year, intensive job skills training program that takes place entirely inside of Newton & Hackettstown Medical Centers in New Jersey. The program serves young adults with disabilities who are motivated to work after fulfilling high school graduate requirements. The program provides a comprehensive employment training experience that incorporates both classroom-based instruction and immersive Work-Based Learning experiences. While in the training classroom, students work cooperatively with similar aged peers to learn critical skills related to employment and socialization. Students also work on career exploration and planning. Students rotate through three different internships during the course of the year. Students receive primary support from Atlantic Health System Team Members who serve as mentors. Our staff are also on-site to provide and fade support and assistance as needed.

@ Newton Medical Center

Calling all Parents, Educators, Professionals, and Potential interns

who are interested in the Project SEARCH program!

Please Join Us for a Virtual Information Session with John O' Hara

Google Meet Link will be sent to your email upon Request

Disability Employment Awareness Day is more than just an event, it’s a celebration of potential, connection, and opportunity. The day brings together interns, mentors and employers to open doors and build confidence through meaningful experiences.

The goals are simple but powerful: to create more internship and employment opportunities for people with disabilities, to highlight disability as an essential part of workplace diversity, and to break down barriers and misconceptions about hiring individuals with disabilities. It’s also about helping interns build confidence in their abilities and encouraging mentoring relationships.

Each year, Disability Employment Awareness Day reminds us that inclusion strengthens every workplace and that with the right opportunities, everyone can thrive.

🦃 Highlights from the Classroom 🍂

As a reminder, in the event that your child will be absent, arriving late, or picked up early, please have your child text/call our classroom instructors. Your child can also email Amy at aanjum@sussexesc.org

Mentors play a crucial role in supporting young people with disabilities in the workplace by providing guidance, encouragement, and practical advice. They help bridge the gap between academic learning and professional success, offering insights into workplace culture, expectations, and personal development.

The Atlantic Health mentors help foster self-confidence and independence by providing emotional support and advocating for necessary accommodations. Additionally, they assist in navigating challenges unique to individuals with disabilities, such as accessibility barriers or social integration. By building a trusting relationship, these mentors empower our interns to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the workplace. We are forever grateful for their ongoing support! (Pictured Above: Lainee with Mentor Christian from Materials Department

Intern Riddhi had the wonderful opportunity to join Randy, the Hospital Chaplain, and Father Thomas in celebrating Spiritual Care Week by helping serve cake to staff and visitors. This event highlighted the importance of compassion, connection, and support for the emotional and spiritual well-being of everyone in the hospital community.

Riddhi enjoyed engaging with staff members from different departments and spreading positivity throughout the day. It was a meaningful way to celebrate kindness and community within the workplace.

Giuliano, a Project SEARCH graduate (Class of 2024) is proudly continuing his success as a Stock Associate at QuickChek in Lafayette. His dedication and strong work ethic have made him a valued member of the team. We are incredibly proud of all that Giuliano has accomplished and look forward to seeing his continued growth and success in the workplace.

Adding a special personal connection to our learning community, Intern Lainee shares a unique bond at Newton Medical Center. Her grandmother, Donna, volunteers in the hospital gift shop! It’s wonderful to see family ties strengthening the sense of community within our program.

November 6 & 7 - Program Closed

November 26 - 12:00 PM Dismissal

November 27 & 28 - Program Closed