Project SEARCH - Westfield Center

08/29/2026

We appreciate the Abilities Advocates Network team who organized the intern meet and greet, inviting the Project SEARCH class and employees to enjoy coffee and conversation in the courtyard. The weather was beautiful, and the networking skills will last a lifetime. Thank you Westfield AAN!

07/31/2026

Hello friends of Project SEARCH!

Our close partner UCP of Greater Cleveland is looking for a Skills Trainer that will support our upcoming Project SEARCH class. This role works directly with our interns each day to help them develop the job skills they need to be successful in competitive employment.

If you or anyone you know might be interested in this opportunity, please share this link with them:

https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/6FB2B21A3427CF786A3268FD43EFECE6/jobs/191738

Thank you!
Westfield Project SEARCH Team

05/22/2026

It was bittersweet celebrating the Project SEARCH Westfield Class of 2026 as they received their diplomas. After an incredible year of internship experiences and growth, they’re now stepping confidently toward competitive community employment. Surrounded by their support teams including Westfield department teams, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities VRCs, Board of Developmental Disabilities SSAs, and most importantly their parents and district representatives, the interns shared their final thoughts about the year they spent at Westfield.

We couldn’t be prouder of Alex, Areck, Katelyn, and Zack—your hard work and dedication have paid off! We’re so excited to see all the success that lies ahead for each of you in the community.

05/14/2026

We're grateful to the Westfield Abilities Advocates Network for hosting the annual Graduation Open House for the interns. The interns had the ability to socialize with many of the employees with whom they've worked, and share information about their future goals. Thank you, AAN, for all you do for our interns!

05/14/2026

As the Class of 2026 interns approach graduation, they are completing their final projects. One key component of these projects is conducting an informational interview with a professional in a field of interest. We are incredibly grateful to the community members who generously volunteered their time to share valuable insights about their careers.

Alex interviewed Rachel Papay, owner of Grateful Dog Kennels, to learn more about the pet care industry and what it takes to start a business. Zack spoke with Joseph Fago, a professional gamer and game store associate at Level 7 Games, to gain insight into the responsibilities and skills required to work in a game store. Katelyn had the opportunity to interview Morgan Munchick at our very own Metz Pillars shop, where she learned about the daily experiences of being a barista. Finally, Areck interviewed Gary Mundson, owner of The Leasing Advantage, to explore entry-level skill requirements needed within the vehicle industry.

The next step? The interns are starting to search for a competitive community job opportunity! We look forward to sharing their success stories.

Send a message to learn more

05/01/2026

The Mentor Program at Westfield Project SEARCH remains one of the most valuable components of the internship experience. Westfield employees meet regularly with their mentees to discuss internship progress, explore career interests, and offer guidance on life skills. Through these meaningful connections, interns gain insight, confidence, and support that extends far beyond the workplace. The lessons they learn and the relationships they build through mentorship will benefit them for a lifetime.