Hanover & District Hospital Welcomes Inaugural Project SEARCH Class in Partnership with Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board and Bluewater District School Board
September 11, 2025
Hanover and District Hospital (HDH), in partnership with the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board and Bluewater District School Board, is proud to announce the launch of Project SEARCH at HDH. On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the hospital welcomed its first class of five students to begin this innovative program.
Project SEARCH is an internationally recognized school-to-work transition program that provides young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with the opportunity to gain meaningful employment skills in a real-world environment. Students spend an academic year fully immersed at a host business, participating in classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on internships. The goal is to equip students with the skills and confidence they need to secure competitive, integrated employment after graduation.
At HDH, students will have access to a dedicated classroom space within the hospital. They will be supported by a teacher and a skills trainer who will guide them in developing the skill set needed to successfully complete tasks within the hospital’s various departments. This combination of on-site learning and workplace experience ensures students receive both academic instruction and practical training throughout the year.
“This partnership highlights the power of collaboration in building brighter futures for young people in our community,” said Dana Howes, President and CEO of HDH. “We are thrilled to welcome our first group of students and look forward to supporting them as they grow and thrive.”
The program also provides HDH staff with the rewarding opportunity to mentor students and support their journey toward independence and future employment.
“We are excited to see our students immersed in such a meaningful and supportive environment,” said Alex Van Weiringen, Superintendent of Education, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board. “Programs like Project SEARCH open doors to opportunities and set students up for long-term success.”
“We are proud to partner on this important initiative that provides students with opportunities to learn, develop, and gain real-world experience,” added Lauren Penner Lipsett, Superintendent of Education, Bluewater District School Board. “This program demonstrates the value of community collaboration in supporting students to reach their full potential.”
The inaugural class will complete their school year at HDH, marking the beginning of a new chapter of community partnership and student development in Hanover.