Employment empowers people. Supported Employment Services help people with disabilities succeed at securing, maintaining, and advancing their careers.

First Step — Determining Eligibility for Employment Services

Eligibility for Employment Services in Maryland or Virginia is determined by the Maryland State Department of Education Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Early contact with DARS or DORS is essential. Begin preparing for employment in middle school, 8th grade.

Didlake provides Supported Employment Services in Maryland and Virginia. DARS or DORS provides you with the necessary documentation and referrals to receive employment services from an agency like Didlake. Contact DARS or DORS to take the first step in the employment journey.

Resources for Career Exploration and Assessments for Transitioning Students

Didlake provides expertise and support for Project SEARCH and the Post Secondary Education Rehabilitation Transition (PERT) Program. To learn more about these specific career exploration options, talk with the transition specialist at your school or your DARS/DORS counselor.

Project SEARCH Internship Program

Project SEARCH is an international program for students between the ages of 18 and 21 with an Applied Studies Diploma. Didlake participates in four Virginia Project SEARCH programs. We are a vital partner working with local school systems and host businesses to provide unpaid 9-10 month internships. The program focuses on employment preparation through a seamless combination of classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training through worksite rotations. Contact the Transition Specialist through your school system for additional information about Project SEARCH.

Didlake Project SEARCH programs:
Lansdowne Resort and Spa, Leesburg, VA

Sentara Leigh Hospital, Norfolk, VA

Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA

UVA Prince William Medical Center, Manassas, VA

Check out our video to learn more about Project SEARCH.

Contact us to learn more about Didlake’s Supported Employment Services.

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