How some students with disabilities avoid the ‘transition cliff’ after high school

Danial Young, a 20-year-old Toronto student, recently graduated from Project Search, a program that helps young people with intellectual or developmental disabilities transition into the working world. For the past 10 months, Danial woke up at 6 a.m. on weekdays to attend the program, leaving behind familiar faces and teachers to embark on a new journey of personal growth and skill development.

Reflecting on his experience, Danial shared that the program has been crucial in preparing him for the real world and helping him evolve into a different person. He emphasized the importance of the learning opportunities and the valuable experiences he gained during his time at Project Search.

Transitioning from high school can be a challenging time for all teens, but especially for those with disabilities who have fewer opportunities available to them. Eddie Bartnik, an international consultant, highlighted the lack of dedicated transition programs for youths with disabilities, leaving them and their families feeling adrift and unsure of what comes next after school-related supports end.

Rachelle Hole, a professor of social work at UBC, noted that while there are pockets of excellence across Canada, many families face a “transition cliff” if they are unable to access the necessary support and resources. She emphasized the need for coordinated funding from various ministries of provincial and territorial governments to ensure a smooth transition process for these individuals.

Project Search, with its immersive and supportive model, has been instrumental in helping young people like Danial develop both technical and soft skills for the workplace. Carolyn McDougall, the program’s Ontario-Canada coordinator, highlighted the importance of providing experiential learning opportunities for individuals with disabilities, as it not only enhances their resumes but also boosts their confidence and professionalism.

Danial shared how Project Search exposed him to new job opportunities, such as working as a hospital porter, which he never imagined himself doing. Through the program, he learned the importance of professionalism, communication skills, and workplace safety protocols, all of which have prepared him for future employment opportunities.

Looking ahead, initiatives like the School Leavers Program in Nova Scotia aim to provide personalized post-graduation plans for students with disabilities. By offering flexible funding for workplace training, community activities, and transportation, the program seeks to empower individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Danial’s fellow Project Search graduate, Jordan O’Neal, has also experienced personal growth and independence through the program. His mother, Brendora Paul, expressed pride in Jordan’s newfound ability to travel independently using public transit, a skill that has boosted his confidence and sense of autonomy.

As more programs like Project Search and the School Leavers Program emerge across Canada, young people with disabilities are gaining access to the support and resources they need to navigate the transition from high school to the working world. These initiatives are paving the way for a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.