Spartan Project SEARCH

True collaboration among partner agencies is essential. This leads to seamless transition services and sustainability through braided funding streams. True collaboration requires a willingness among partner organizations to share resources and adapt policies and procedures.

Michigan State University provides an on-site classroom and a variety of internships that teach core skills related to that business or organization.

• College of Agriculture and Natural Resources: Hosting College
• Benjamin Darling: Business Liaison 

Ingham Intermediate School District provides an instructor, employability skills curriculum and student interns from their affiliated schools.

• Brooke Locher – Classroom Instructor 
• Amber Dale - Transition Consultant 
• Michael Zivsak - Social Worker
• Michel McDonald - Director of Transition Services
• Sarah Winslow - Statewide Director, Project SEARCH  

Bureau of Services for Blind and Michigan Rehabilitation Services provides individual career guidance, job coaching and other supports for each intern to gain competitive employment.

•  Justine Bond – Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (MRS)
• Leah Avant and Sue Root – Rehabilitation Counselor (BSBP)      

Peckham provides skills trainers for on-the-job training and job development for interns at the host business and in their initial job.

• Brooke Lippert – Skills Trainer Coordinator 

Community Mental Health provides long term retention and support for eligible interns once they secure a position after Project SEARCH.

• Scott Belanger – Coordinator