Project SEARCH HSN interns honoured in year-end celebration

Participants in the Project SEARCH HSN employment preparation and career training program were honoured at Health Sciences North on June 23, 2025. Students received Certificates of Completion on behalf of Rainbow District School Board, Health Sciences North and March of Dimes Canada.

Project SEARCH is a transition-to-work program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Students in their final year of high school develop skills required for entry-level employment.

Ten students from Rainbow Schools engaged in three internships in various departments at Health Sciences North. The placements, which are eight to ten weeks in duration, were determined by student interest and skill level. Internships were guided by skilled, experienced staff including a teacher from Rainbow District School Board and two Skills Trainers from March of Dimes Canada.

Anthony Roberge of Lively District Secondary School was selected as the class Valedictorian. During the ceremony, Anthony spoke of his internship experience. “Each department taught me new things,” he said. “In Medical Device Reprocessing, I learned about a lesser-known part of the hospital; in the Rock Garden Café, I learned about communication as well as food prep and safety; and in materials management, I learned the importance of attention to detail. My mentors, coworkers and onsite team also taught me that feedback is not scary – it’s a chance for me to learn and grow.”

He added: “I started the program very curious, and I am ending the program motivated and ready. I hope that my classmates achieve their future goals and feel as good as I do.”

“It is a privilege and joy to support Project SEARCH – an initiative that passionately works to remove barriers and build an inclusive community,” said Jessica Diplock, Vice-President, People and Culture for Health Sciences North. “Through their internships at HSN, these graduates have truly blossomed, gaining the confidence and capabilities essential for workplace success and bright prospects ahead. The staff here at HSN extends their profound pride and congratulations to the 2024-2025 Project SEARCH graduates!”

“Together, we are celebrating a group of hard-working students who’ve chosen to give back to their community while creating a pathway to a more prosperous future,” said Len Baker, President and CEO of March of Dimes Canada. “Project SEARCH is an example of what we can achieve when like-minded partners come together to eliminate barriers to employment and embrace the possibilities of a truly inclusive and accessible workplace.”

Rainbow District School Board Chair David Farrow praised the interns for their achievement. “On behalf of the Board, I extend congratulations to all Project SEARCH HSN participants,” said Chair Farrow. “They learned new skills, developed resilience, cultivated relationships, gained confidence in their abilities, and proved that they can do anything they set their mind to. We wish them the very best in their next adventures.”

“Project SEARCH is a true testament to the power of partnerships,” said Bruce Bourget, Director of Education with Rainbow District School Board. “I extend a deep appreciation to everyone who worked tirelessly to make this a reality for our students. I would also like to thank the mentors for their diligence during the in-class component and the hands-on training at Health Sciences North. Sincere congratulations to all.”

Project SEARCH was launched in 1996 at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center in an effort to promote a vibrant, inclusive workforce. There are now more than 600 Project SEARCH sites worldwide.

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Media Contact:

Jennifer Battah Chartrand

Communications Coordinator
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7212