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Jaylin Nuehring Mercy Nutrition Services

Mario Hughes Project SEARCH students at Mercy Medical CenterNorth Iowa have a unique opportunity to learn and practice job skills and determine their interests. A Class of 2013 graduate, Jaylin Nuehring found her calling. “I got to try working in three different departments, and Nutrition Services was my favorite. I knew that I wanted to work there. When there was a job open, my job coach Janelle encouraged me to apply for it.” Jaylin was hired shortly after graduating from high school. “Since I already knew lots of the jobs from Project SEARCH, it was easy for me to learn. Every day, I wash pots and pans and unload the dish machine. I have to put everything away so it’s ready for the next shift.” Jaylin is looking to the future in her position, as well. “I want to learn new jobs in Nutrition Services. I want to help deliver carts so I can work with the patients.” Nutrition Services Director Steve Achord is enthusiastic about Project SEARCH’s contribution to his department. “When someone asks me about Project SEARCH, my reply is simply, it’s a great partnership and we are extremely happy with the results. In the short time students are in our department, we can see each of them grow, especially in their confidence level and enthusiasm as they learn new skills and interact with our employees and with our customers. One thing I am most proud of is being able to hire two former Project Search students and integrate them into our team on a permanent basis. Their strong work ethic and contributions to Nutrition Services makes us stronger and we look forward to seeing the program grow within our department.” Patient services manager Margie Arispe agrees. “Our department is a happier place because of employees like Jaylin and Mario.We are very lucky to have found them through Project SEARCH, which gave them a chance to show off their work ethic and willingness to learn.” Mario Hughes was recently hired for a similar position in

Nutrition Services. “I didn’t work there during Project SEARCH,” he explains, “but the director saw me working at The Willows and thought I did a good job. He asked my supervisor if I would apply for a job in Nutrition Services.” After going through the application and interview process, Mario was excited to start his new job on September 15. “I’ve had jobs before, but they weren’t a career for me. Project SEARCH helped me move to a better job.” Mario hopes to use his experience to benefit future employees. “I already know some of the new Project SEARCH workers and I want to help them learn,” he says. What can you do? Read on to learn about how NIVC Services is helping north Iowans with disabilities EXPECT, EMPLOY and EMPOWER themselves.

2014 National Disability Employment Awareness Month Billboard


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