Project Pathways graduation at Midlands Park Hotel
- Kare
- 24 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Three participants in our Project Pathways initiative have graduated from the inaugural programme delivered in partnership with Midlands Park Hotel. The graduation ceremony at the hotel celebrated Declan Baker, Celine Chelariu and Stephen Travers for successfully completing the programme.
Project Pathways is an employment programme that provides young adults with intellectual disabilities with workplace experience and skills development. Part of Kare’s 'Stepping Stones to Employment' project, it is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, through the Department of Social Protection, and the European Union as part of the WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme.
The first phase was launched in November 2025 through a partnership between Kare and Midlands Park Hotel, combining hands-on experience working in the hotel with individual support from Kare staff, helping participants to prepare for future employment opportunities.
Throughout the programme, Declan, Celine and Stephen each completed three work placement rotations across hotel departments, including Accommodation, Health & Leisure Centre, Stores, Bar & Restaurant and Conference Services. The rotations gave them the opportunity to gain practical experience, build confidence and develop new skills.
At the graduation ceremony, the hotel's HR team praised the contribution made by the participants during their time at the hotel: “Midlands Park Hotel is proud to partner with Project Pathways, providing valuable work experience opportunities for young adults with intellectual disabilities. Since joining us, Celine, Stephen and Declan have made a fantastic contribution to the hotel, demonstrating enthusiasm, teamwork and a willingness to learn across a variety of departments.”
Stephen spoke about his experience on the programme, thanking those who supported him throughout the year: “I would like to say a big thank you to everyone in the hotel … including the staff in the leisure club, charter bar, accommodation and the stores. I also made lovely friends in the leisure club through aqua aerobics. Thank you to my lovely job coach for supporting me all the way through. I will miss you all so much and thank you all so much.”
Stephen was recognised for his outstanding contribution during the placement, receiving two separate Employee of the Month nominations while working at the hotel.
Having successfully completed the programme, Declan, Celine and Stephen will now be working closely with Kare job coaches and keyworkers to pursue paid employment.
The graduation marks an important milestone for all three participants and highlights the value of partnerships between employers and disability service providers in creating inclusive employment opportunities.
