UCP Interns Graduate Job-Ready and In Demand

Norwich, CT – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Eastern Connecticut, in proud partnership with Hartford HealthCare’s Backus Hospital and the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS), is thrilled to celebrate the graduation of the 2026 Project SEARCH class—an inspiring milestone for a program that continues to transform lives and strengthen the community’s workforce.

Project SEARCH is an internationally recognized, nine-month internship program designed to prepare young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) for meaningful, competitive, integrated employment. Hosted onsite at Backus Hospital, the program offers a fully immersive workplace experience where interns build real-world skills, confidence, and independence.

Throughout the year, interns completed hands-on rotations across key hospital departments, including food and nutrition, patient transport, and environmental services. Combined with structured classroom instruction in employability, job discovery, and life skills, the program equips graduates with the tools they need to succeed—and thrive—in today’s workforce.

At the ceremony, Christine Olbrys, Associate Executive Director at UCP, thanked the interns for their dedication and resilience. She noted that while UCP set high expectations, the interns consistently rose to each challenge. Olbrys also recognized Backus Hospital “for creating such a welcoming environment and for providing so many options for the interns to try different skills in various departments to learn as much as they could,” adding that “this program could not exist without the partnership.”

Brian Gresko, statewide coordinator for Project SEARCH at DDS highlighted the scope and impact of the initiative. “We have 17 Project SEARCH programs in Connecticut and 800 across the nation, so this is a big network,” he explained. “The program has a 93% graduation rate and, of those who graduate, over 75% find employment.”

One of those success stories is JT Carlin of East Lyme, a graduate of last year’s Project SEARCH program who was hired as an Information Desk Receptionist at Backus Hospital. Returning to celebrate this year’s graduates, JT encouraged new interns by saying, “If you’re willing to put yourself out there and work in a hospital or a fast-paced setting, I’d say go for it—definitely do it.”

“Programs like this are essential to building a more inclusive, equitable workforce,” said Jennifer Keatley, Executive Director of UCP. “Our interns leave with more than job skills—they gain confidence, independence, and a clear path forward.”

The impact extends beyond employment. The interns build lasting friendships and develop professional networks. At the same time, employers benefit from a more diverse, dedicated workforce and improved retention in critical roles.

Donna Handley, East Region President at Backus Hospital, emphasized the value of the partnership and encouraged other healthcare organizations to participate. “I encourage other hospitals to take part in this amazing program,” she said. “UCP is so supportive—they collaborate with leadership in our hospital to establish the program and identify opportunities to ensure the interns have a meaningful experience. Everybody benefits. Each of the interns grows, the teams that mentor them grow. The program adds to our culture and brings us joy.”

UCP is actively recruiting for Project SEARCH
For both the upcoming cohort that starts 9/8/26 and for the one that will begin in September 2027. Individuals interested in applying or learning more can visit: https://ucpect.org/programs/employment-project-search/.

For additional information, please contact:

Christine Olbrys at 860-288-9526 or colbrys@ucpect.org

About UCP of Eastern Connecticut
UCP of Eastern Connecticut is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing independence, inclusion, and full citizenship for people with disabilities. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, UCP empowers individuals to reach their full potential at home, in school, and in the workplace.