The Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) has launched Project SEARCH, an internationally recognized employment training program designed to help youth with disabilities that may cause barriers to entering the workforce to secure competitive employment. This program is being delivered in partnership with the Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH), the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre (PMFRC), and Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley (CLUOV).

 

A total of five RCDSB students began the program in September, marking the first to benefit from this model, which has achieved a 70 percent employment success rate globally.

 

Based at Pembroke Regional Hospital, Project SEARCH offers students in their final year of high school a 10-month workplace immersion. Participants complete three on-site internships in a variety of departments. Each day begins with classroom instruction on employability skills, while also touching on life skills and navigating social spaces.

 

“Project SEARCH provides RCDSB students with meaningful, hands-on workplace experiences that bridge the gap between school and employment, empowering them to build stronger skills, confidence, and independence needed for successful transitions into paid employment,” said Angela

McGregor-Stewart, Principal, Specialized Services, RCDSB.

 

Project SEARCH was developed at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in 1996 and has since expanded to 774 sites across 10 countries, including 22 in Canada. More than 47,000 people have participated globally.

 

"We're proud to see students developing valuable job skills while contributing meaningfully to hospital operations," said Bailey Kehoe, Manager of Human Resources, Pembroke Regional Hospital.

 

The program serves youth with disabilities who are focusing on employment after high school. It brings together educators, employment service providers, and business mentors to ensure participants are job-ready upon graduation in June 2026.

 

"From the first day to now, the interns have grown a remarkable amount by learning new skills and completing tasks, all while gaining confidence,” said Jenn Hawes, Skills Trainer, Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley.

 

“I am so happy that our community came together to offer this program, and I can't wait to see the progress the interns will make by June and how it will benefit them in the workplace after!"

 

For the 2026-27 program, seven to eight interns will begin placement, depending on the availability of hospital internships. Families interested can contact Cindy Brash at brashc@rcdsb.on.ca or attend one of the following sessions: the virtual information sessions on December 1, 2025, and March 25, 2026, or the in-person Information session on February 5, 2026. Register here

Media Contact:

 

Jay Makwana, Communications Officer,

Renfrew County District School Board 

makwanaj@rcdsb.on.ca / (613) 735-0151 ext. 2290

 

About the Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB)

 

The Renfrew County District School Board serves approximately 9,000 students across Renfrew County, Ontario. RCDSB is committed to student achievement, well-being, and inclusive education that prepares every learner for success in life, work, and community.

 

About Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH)

 

Supported by a dedicated team of approximately 1,000 staff, physicians and volunteers, the Pembroke Regional Hospital delivers high-quality, compassionate care close to home. Services include emergency and intensive care, medical/surgical care, acute mental health, orthopedics and obstetrics. In addition, PRH is a regional centre for rehabilitation, stroke care and community-based mental health services. Together, in partnership with our healthcare partners and specialists, the hospital delivers chemotherapy, dialysis, and a variety of ambulatory care clinics.

 

About the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre (PMFRC)

 

The Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre supports Canadian Armed Forces members and their families through programs that build resilience, community connection, and lifelong learning.

 

About Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley (CLUOV)

 

Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley is a developmental services organization that provides various types of support for people in the community with intellectual disabilities. CLUOV has been serving the community for 65 years and has built a strong reputation for their commitment to fostering inclusion and providing person-centered support. Through partnerships and advocacy, CLUOV promotes belonging and participation for all citizens.