Community Hospital in Grand Junction has implemented a program to promote employment opportunities for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Supporting our community is at the forefront of our mission,” said Chris Thomas, president and chief executive officer of Community Hospital. “Project SEARCH is one more way Community Hospital can help foster young talent in our community, and we are thrilled to help trailblaze this program on the Western Slope.”

Community Hospital is the first program site for Project SEARCH on the Western Slope and one of only nine sites in Colorado. Interns participate in two semesters of rotations through various departments in the hospital as well receive onsite training in such topics as financial literacy, self-advocacy, team building, technology and workplace safety.

Program partners also include Mesa County School District 51 and the Mesa County Workforce Center as well as Arc of Mesa County and Strive.

Christina O’Dell, director of volunteer services at Community Hospital, said the hospital has worked with the school district and other partners to help prepare young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for adulthood. “Community Hospital is proud to play an integral role in addressing a significant need on the Western Slope.”