MILWAUKEE — A former student in Hartford is succeeding in the workforce thanks to a program called Project SEARCH.
Ashley Strupp got a job at Festival Foods in Hartford through the program. Project SEARCH is a one year transition program for students with disabilities who are in their last year of high school.
The program is sponsored by West Bend Mutual Insurance Company. In it, students and interns participate in up to three unpaid internships to explore a variety of career opportunities.
Their support team includes family, a special education teacher, employment coordinator, skills trainer and West Bend Mutual Insurance associates.
Ashley Strupp said the program helped her fill out job applications, create a resume and prepare for job interviews.
She said working at Festival has given her a new sense of independence.
“I like to be on my own here,” she said. “Everyone is really nice.”
Ashley’s mother Carol Strupp said Ashley was diagnosed with an intellectual disability at a young age, causing her to struggle with speech and some fine motor skills.
Despite her challenges, Carol Strupp said her daughter is thriving.
“It’s wonderful to see her be so independent,” said Carol Strupp. “This is somewhere where she is going to learn and grow, which is what her dad and I always wanted for her.”
Ashley Strupp said her work ethic started at home.
“I’m a hard worker on the farm with all my animals,” she said.
In addition to helping on her family farm, she’s involved in 4H, FFA and Special Olympics. Now, she’s using those skills to excel at her Festival job.
Once they’ve been hired, individuals can continue to receive support from a skills trainer or job coach in the program. The ultimate goal is for them to secure employment in their communities, working at least 16 hours per week, and earning a prevailing wage.
“The people at West Bend Mutual where she did those internships were wonderful and gave her so many skills that she uses everyday now at Festival,” said Carol Strupp of her daughter.
Linda Klink is a coordinator with Project SEARCH. She said Ashley’s positivity inspires others.
“Ashley is a very hard-working young lady who encourages others to be their best self, as she always models the same,” said Klink. “Ashley is never without her smile, and her friendly personality and can-do attitude are contagious.”
Ben Skogen is Ashley’s former manager at Festival and can also attest to Ashley’s hard work and attitude.
“She always has a positive attitude,” said Skogen. “If we’re having a down day, we can talk with Ashley and she brings our spirits right up.”