The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) recently hosted an intern from Project SEARCH at Kennedy Krieger Institute, a 10-month transition program for individuals aged 18 through 24, which provides hands-on job training through integrated worksite rotations, career exploration, innovative adaptations and mentoring from experienced staff members. Its goal is for interns to use their internship skills to gain competitive employment.
As a Project SEARCH intern with the MCDD, Addis Abiy worked with Project HEAL (Health, Education, Advocacy, and Law) staff attorneys, Tyler Cochran, Esq. and Emma Barbato, Esq., former staff attorney, Annie Carver, Esq., as well as with the Resource Finder’s program coordinator, Kristine Nellenbach, MS.
During his internship with Project HEAL, Addis acquired insights into maintaining a professional demeanor in the workplace. Always enthusiastic to begin his shift, he enjoyed meeting and collaborating with new people. Addis helped with organizing files, checking the mail and creating folders for community events. Furthermore, he undertook the task of reorganizing the MCDD’s storage closet, enhancing his organizational abilities.
Addis supported the Resource Finder program by affixing sticker labels containing the contact information of Resource Finder onto printed resources. He also replenished brochures and pamphlets in Kennedy Krieger’s Resource Center and contributed to the creation of a resource binder by inserting papers into plastic page protectors. Addis participated in MCDD staff meetings and contributed to a cultural and linguistic competency activity in which MCDD staff members and trainees answered questions about their preferences.
“Working with Addis was a delight,” says Nellenbach, Resource Finder program coordinator. “He was focused and persistent with tasks and we are so thankful for all his hard work!”
The MCDD is excited about its collaboration with Project SEARCH at Kennedy Krieger Institute and intends to stay involved for many years to come. The program is one of 14 Project SEARCH sites across Maryland.
