Announcements and Program Developments

VR Selects Project SEARCH as an Effective Program for People with ASD.

The VR Autism National Advisory Panel identifies effective employment programs for people with autism spectrum disorders throughout the United States. Project SEARCH was selected as an Effective Program in 2011.

• View the Webinar. 
• Learn more about VR's Service Models for people with ASD.

NDSS Sponsors Webinar on Project SEARCH

Each month, the National Down Syndrome Society provides a free educational web-based seminar, or webinar, to anyone who is interested in learning more about Down syndrome and related topics, such as health, education, research and family life.

On November 29, 2012, Maryellen Daston, Ph.D. and Susie Rukowski, MEd. presented, "Achieving Meaningul Employment for Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: High School Transition the Project SEARCH Way."

To view the webinar video or slides, click here.

NIDRR Funds Research on Project SEARCH at VCU

The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research has awarded a five-year, two and a half million dollar grant to Virginia Commonwealth University and its partners to help expand research on the Project SEARCH model as it pertains to achieving meaningful employment for young people with autism.

To learn more, listen to this interview with lead investigator, Dr. Paul Wehman, VCU Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabiliation.

Project SEARCH Book Released July 11, 2012

High School Transition that Works: Lessons Learned from Project SEARCH®

By Maryellen Daston, Ph.D., J. Erin Riehle, M.S.N., & Susie Rutkowski, M.A.

Foreword by Paul Wehman, Ph.D.

Filled with invaluable tips and strategies, case studies, and practical materials to help you apply principles of the Project SEARCH model, this book will inspire higher expectations for young people with disabilities and vibrant new ideas about systems change. A must for all transition teams as they work to advance competitive employment and richer lives for all people with intellectual disabilities. Check out this book discussion with the authors to learn more.

Order your copy now.