Greater Essex County District School Board opening doors for young adults with disabilities
July 20, 2026
For many young adults with developmental disabilities, the transition from school to meaningful employment can be uncertain. That is why programs that connect education with hands-on workplace experience matter so deeply.
On June 10, 2026, eight interns from OMERS employer, the Greater Essex County District School Board, reached a major milestone, graduating from the Project SEARCH program at St. Clair College. The internationally recognized initiative helps students prepare for employment through immersive, year-long placements focused on building independence and practical skills.
This year’s cohort completed the program through a partnership between the school board, St. Clair College and community organizations. Supported by Ontario’s Ministry of Education through a Breaking Barriers Grant, the interns gained hands-on experience in real workplace settings, developing both job-specific skills and the confidence to contribute independently.
Eight interns completed intensive training and workplace rotations, supported by educators, mentors and community partners who helped guide their progress throughout the year. The graduation ceremony brought together families, staff and supporters to celebrate not just completion of the program, but the personal growth of each intern.
Partnership has been central to the program’s success. St. Clair College provided the workplace environment and mentorship opportunities, while organizations such as Community Living Windsor and Community Living Essex County offered additional support to ensure students could fully participate. Support staff Anna Lisa Fusaro and Sloane Crease, who are OMERS members, were deeply involved in the program, alongside educators who are members from our pension peer, the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan. Program leaders worked closely with employers to create inclusive experiences that reflect real job expectations.
Most importantly, the results speak for themselves. Students who began the year uncertain and adjusting to a new environment left as confident young adults, equipped with practical skills and a clearer path forward. What began as a new opportunity has become a strong example of what is possible when systems collaborate around inclusion.
Programs like Project SEARCH show that with the right support, every individual can contribute meaningfully to their community. As more organizations come together to expand inclusive employment pathways, the impact will continue to grow, opening doors for future cohorts and helping build a more inclusive workforce.
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