Project SEARCH Pioneer Manor interns honoured at year-end celebration

Participants in the inaugural Project SEARCH Pioneer Manor employment preparation and career training program were honoured at Pioneer Manor on June 18, 2025. Students received Certificates of Completion on behalf of Rainbow District School Board, Pioneer Manor 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.

In its first year at Pioneer Manor, eight students from Rainbow Schools engaged in three internships in various departments. The placements, which were 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 Skills Trainers from March of Dimes Canada.

Deshawn Sacobie of Confederation Secondary School, who was also selected as the class Valedictorian, began his first internship working in Life Enrichment. “This involved bringing residents to activities, helping out with activities and sometimes even running my own activities,” said Deshawn. “I think I am going to miss that the most. The residents are very kind. I had lots of one-on-one time with them, which helped me out of my shell. I loved it.”

He added: “If I had one piece of advice for students joining Project SEARCH it would be to enjoy every second of this wonderful opportunity.”

Some students in Project SEARCH have already secured employment including Joshua Lacelle of Lasalle Secondary School. “I was able to get a job with Denis Gratton Construction doing labour work,” said Joshua. “Right now we are working in the Junction Creek area to ensure it’s safe and accessible. It’s been really good. I feel happy and lucky.”

“We are extremely pleased to celebrate the inaugural graduates of Project SEARCH at Pioneer Manor and are proud to be part of this partnership,” said Aaron Archibald, Director of Long-Term Care Services with the City of Greater Sudbury. “These remarkable individuals have shown dedication, resilience and the ability to thrive in a professional environment. Their achievements not only reflect their personal growth but also highlight the value of inclusive employment within long-term care. We are honoured to have been part of their journey and look forward to seeing the incredible contributions they will continue to make in our community.”

“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 for people and embrace the possibilities of a truly inclusive and accessible workplace.”

Rainbow District School Board Chair David Farrow praised the interns for their outstanding achievement. “On behalf of the Board, I extend sincere congratulations to all Project SEARCH participants,” said Chair Farrow. “They’ve worked hard, gained new skills, nurtured relationships, fostered confidence in their abilities, and proved that they can do anything they set their minds to. We wish them the best in their very bright futures.”

“Project SEARCH is a shining example of how partnerships benefit students,” said Bruce Bourget, Director of Education with Rainbow District School Board. “I extend a deep appreciation to everyone who worked diligently to make this a reality for our students. I would also like to thank those who mentored students during the in-class component and the hands-on training at Pioneer Manor. 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, including Pioneer Manor and Health Sciences North in Sudbury.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217