Connecticut Families: Middlesex Hospital’s progressive internship leads to jobs for adults with special needs

MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (WTNH) — For the past two years, Middlesex Hospital has been part of a progressive model, providing internships to young adults with special needs.

“I like how I get to interact with the different people I meet everyday,” said Nick Gibertoni, who works in transport at the hospital.

The 24-year-old with special needs has worked hard throughout his life to overcome challenges.

“The doctors told my mom when I was born I would never be able to walk or like ride a bike,” he said.

And now he’s achieving.

Two years ago, he was an intern at the hospital as part of a program called “Project Search,” which is run by MARC Community Resources, providing services to adults with developmental disabilities.

“It’s a nine-month program where they complete three rotations in different departments working side-by-side of employees at the hospital, learning that department, learning those skills,” said Melissa Davison-Wood, President & CEO of MARC Community Resources.

“We’ve had interns in probably a dozen different departments from our dietary office, linen department, the pharmacy, physical rehab,” said Chris Crouch, who works for the hospital.

Brianna Stange loves her work in the cafeteria where she’s busy dealing with important details like recipients’ dietary needs.

“I do tray passing mostly,” she said.

Oftentimes, an internship becomes a job.

“Of 14 interns, currently, we have employed 13 of those interns here in 10 different departments,” Crouch said.

Interns take part in training before they begin their rotations and then have to apply for jobs at the hospital, just like everyone else.

Gibertoni- who shares his charm and social skills with those around him- hopes he works at the hospital for many years to come.

Seven more interns will start in the fall at the hospital and MARC Community Resources is looking to expand the program to work with even more businesses.