A new summer initiative in Demopolis is making a real difference for students with disabilities — offering them paid, hands-on experience in a professional setting.
What’s Happening
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From June 27 to June 28, Whitfield Regional Hospital partnered with the Whitfield Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy of West Alabama to launch the Job Exploration Training (JET) program. This marks the program’s first year and provides a structured internship designed especially for individuals with special needs.
Program Details
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Duration & Format
A four-week internship running Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. -
Paid Work Experience
Participants earn wages while gaining real work exposure across departments such as central supply, dietary services, and auxiliary support.
Benefits for Participants
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Skill Development
The program fosters practical workplace abilities — managing tasks, collaborating with staff, and adapting to a professional routine. -
Boost in Confidence
JET's job coach Mae Nettles observed a dramatic transformation: “a lot of them came in shy and unsure. But now, they all feel more confident.” -
Future Employment Goals
The initiative aims to help participants transition into permanent roles post-internship. Ashley Coplin of the Whitfield Foundation emphasized the hope for future job placement.
Looking Ahead
Despite being in its inaugural year with just five participants, the program has been deemed a success. Organizers aim to expand JET in summer 2026 by running two cohorts — one in June and another in July.
Why It Matters
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Empowerment Through Work
Paid internships like JET provide a pathway to independence and self-confidence for students with disabilities. -
Community Collaboration
The hospital, local foundation, and United Cerebral Palsy have set a positive example of how partnerships can drive inclusion. -
Blueprint for Replication
The early success in Demopolis could inspire similar programs statewide or nationally, enhancing workforce diversity.