photos courtesy of Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack, NJ – On Friday, June 13th, Bergen County proudly hosted its 9th Annual Project SEARCH Graduation Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2025. The event honored a group of dedicated young adults who completed a yearlong journey of personal and professional growth through one of New Jersey’s most impactful internship programs for differently abled students.
🌟 What Is Project SEARCH?
Project SEARCH is a business-led, school-to-work internship program designed to empower differently abled students by equipping them with the skills and experience needed to secure meaningful employment. Over the course of an academic year, participants receive classroom-based instruction combined with hands-on experience through customized internships tailored to each student’s interests, goals, and potential. Project SEARCH helps young adults with disabilities develop the habits and mindsets needed to make them successful for the duration of their working life.
The ultimate objective of Project SEARCH is not just education — it’s job placement, setting students up for long-term success in the workforce.
🏥 Internships Across Bergen County
In 2025, Project SEARCH participants completed internships at leading institutions including:
-
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
-
Holy Name Medical Center
These internships provided students with real-world job training in healthcare, administration, hospitality, and more, helping them develop the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in their chosen careers.
Bergen County extended a special thank-you to NJ Friendship House for its continued partnership and unwavering support of the program.
đź’¬ A Message from County Executive Jim Tedesco
During the ceremony, Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco congratulated the graduates, praising their commitment and determination:
“To our graduates: the knowledge you’ve gained, the people you’ve met, and the experiences you’ve had through Project SEARCH are invaluable and will continue to guide you as you contribute to our workforce and our communities. We are so proud of how far you have come and can’t wait to see all the success that you have in your future.”
He added:
“On behalf of the nearly 1 million residents of Bergen County, congratulations to the Project SEARCH Class of 2025! Your hard work has truly paid off, and we are all so proud of you.”
đź‘Ź Why Project SEARCH Matters
Programs like Project SEARCH are vital to building a more inclusive and equitable workforce in New Jersey. By investing in young people with diverse abilities and providing access to meaningful employment, Bergen County is setting a powerful example for other communities across the state and the nation.
📸 Congratulations, Class of 2025!
As the graduates of Project SEARCH Class of 2025 step forward into their next chapters, their achievements serve as a testament to what’s possible when opportunity, support, and determination align.
Congratulations to each graduate — your future is bright, and Bergen County is proud to be part of your journey!
great program