ORLANDO, Fla. — For young adults with disabilities, finding meaningful work can feel uncertain. At AdventHealth East Orlando, a recent graduation is helping change that, opening doors to confidence, independence and a stronger sense of purpose.
Three students, Dereck Williams, Trinity Youngspring and Isaac Pugh, were honored Friday after completing a transition program led by the Center for Independent Living in partnership with AdventHealth.
Through hands-on experience in hospital departments, the graduates gained practical skills and workplace confidence to help shape their future.
The program addresses a critical need. Individuals with developmental disabilities often face higher rates of unemployment, limiting access to stable income and opportunities for personal growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“One in five young adults with a disability is not employed, which shows why access to real-world training matters,” said Charlotte Leavitt, president and CEO of the Center for Independent Living. “When individuals have opportunities to build skills and gain experience, they are better prepared to succeed and move forward with confidence.”
By offering hands-on training and mentorship, the program helps participants build skills and confidence for future employment.
Over the course of a school year, students rotate through departments such as Nutritional Services, Supply Chain and Environmental Services, gaining real-world experience while discovering their strengths.
Supported by mentors and transition specialists, participants also develop professional confidence and meaningful connections that can help lead to lasting opportunities.
The graduation ceremony brought together leaders, mentors and families to celebrate perseverance, growth and the support that helped each student succeed.
“We rise by lifting others,” said Julie Sing, director of the AdventHealth Volunteer Program. “Today, we rise together as we celebrate how far these students have come.”
AdventHealth continues to partner with organizations like the Center for Independent Living to expand access to education and workforce training, helping remove barriers and create clearer pathways to employment for individuals with disabilities.
“At AdventHealth, we believe care includes creating opportunities for people to grow, find purpose and build a future they feel confident in,” said Caitlin Lewis, CEO of AdventHealth East Orlando. “By partnering in programs like this, we are helping open doors for individuals to build independence, form meaningful connections and take steps toward a life that feels whole.”
To learn more about the Center for Independent Living and its programs, visit www.cilorlando.org. To find educational, non-clinical opportunities with AdventHealth, click here.
12 items. To interact with these items, press Control-Option-Shift-Right Arrow. These items are in a slider. To advance slider forward, press Shift-Command-Right Arrow. To advance slider backward, press Shift-Command-Left Arrow.
News
Amid rapid population growth, AdventHealth plans a new hospital in The Villages to bring care closer to residents
The project is expected to expand access to emergency and hospital services in one of Florida’s fastest-growing regions.
News
Nurse-led effort brings inclusive hair care to patients at AdventHealth for Women and Children
Nurse-led effort brings more inclusive hair care options to the bedside, helping patients feel more comfortable, confident and cared for during their time in the hospital.
News
A nurse’s quiet act of compassion brings comfort to a grieving family
On a quiet morning in DeLand, before the day shift began and long after a night shift ended, a quiet act of care took place at a gravesite.
News
A second chance and a new purpose
For Jonathon Miller, volunteering at AdventHealth Porter is more than giving back, it’s a continuation of a life he nearly lost.
News
Tampa shines red for stroke awareness—because seconds matter
From bridges to parks, Tampa turns red to reinforce that stroke care is a race against the clock—and early action can protect your future.
Media Coverage
Community gathers over music, mission, meaning
The music series provides a moment of peace and reflection away from the busy cadence of everyday life.
News
Uplifting the next generation of STEM leaders
The Altamonte Springs Science Incubator (AS2I) Program gives aspiring STEM professionals hands-on experience, scholarships and mentorship opportunities.
News
A mother honors her stepson’s legacy through the gift of life
Max Robinson, 11, became a donor hero, helping restore health and hope for others.
News
A second chance at life: inside the transplant journey
AdventHealth Transplant Institute’s Dr. Bobby Nibhanupudy shares a rare look at what recipients and donors experience along the way
News
AdventHealth Parker team members save a life at local race
When a runner collapsed during the Platte River Half Marathon on April 12, three Parker team members didn’t hesitate to step in to save a life.
News
Meet the AdventHealth 2026 Bucs Babies 'rookie class'
AdventHealth welcomes the 2026 Bucs Babies rookie class with an updated draft kit for new families.
Social Media Post
We’re expanding our operating rooms at AdventHealth Kissimmee to keep up with a growing Osceola County
Chief Operating Officer Daniel Monnier shares the first look at what this means for our patients and community.