What does care make possible?
At its best, care extends beyond a single moment or setting, creating opportunity, building confidence, and forming lasting connections that continue well into the future.
That impact is clearly reflected in our partnership with Project SEARCH.
Over that time, 339 interns have completed the program, with an impressive 85% job placement rate. Nearly 100 of those individuals have joined Health First, while others have gone on to contribute to respected organizations across our community, including Publix, Jersey Mike’s, Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and Brevard County.
These outcomes represent more than success metrics; they reflect lives changed through independence, purpose, and a genuine sense of belonging.
That spirit was on display recently at a community 5K supporting autism awareness, where members of the Project SEARCH team represented Health First by hosting a vendor table and raising awareness of the program. The event created opportunities to reconnect with former interns, strengthening relationships that continue well beyond the program itself. It also included participation from one of our own team members as a runner, reflecting the pride and commitment that surround this work.
Through this program, we continue to live our mission to improve the health and wellness of the communities we serve in ways that go beyond traditional care. Wellness includes having a place to belong, a path forward, and the opportunity to contribute in ways that are valued and recognized.
The impact of this work is perhaps best expressed by those closest to it.
As Project SEARCH Instructor Mackenzie Hill shared, “Working with Project SEARCH interns is a constant reminder of why this work matters. Watching these young adults discover their strengths, build confidence, and grow into employees who feel valued and capable is incredibly rewarding. As an instructor, the most meaningful moments are seeing them realize what they’re truly capable of.”
A current intern in General Stores at Palm Bay Hospital offered a similar perspective, saying, “It has been a pretty good experience working with a team. We help each other out; we help each other catch up and solve problems. It also makes me feel like I'm part of something important in the hospital because we make sure everything is in stock and nothing has expired in every supply room.”
Their words capture what makes this program so meaningful in a way statistics alone cannot.
This work reflects compassion in action, respect that is genuinely felt, accountability in creating inclusive opportunities, and excellence in supporting growth not only clinically, but personally and professionally.
Thank you to the teams who lead and support this program, and to every Project SEARCH intern, past and present, who continues to inspire us through their growth and contributions.
The impact of this work is lasting, and it is made possible each day through your dedication to caring for our community in meaningful and inclusive ways.
Terry Forde
President & CEO, Health First
Health First in the news.
Stay informed about the latest at Health First, from new technology to groundbreaking procedures and more.