BISM’s Gold STAR Program is BACK for the 2026 Summer!
Interested in Becoming a Gold STAR Student?
Have you ever wanted to gain experience in the working world before formally entering it? Or wish you could get paid for learning instead of the other way around?
If you are interested in attending this program as a student, please complete the Gold STAR 2025 Interest Form here.
For Students
Have you ever wanted to gain experience in the working world before formally entering it? Or wished you could get paid for learning instead of the other way around?
Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) is excited to continue the Gold STAR Program! This fully residential program will provide participants with a 4-week Work Based Learning Experience. Students will reside in apartment style housing with their peers while working in a professional environment and receiving job readiness skills training from competent Blind professionals.
This work experience will provide you as a student with a first-hand perspective of professional environments and the responsibilities that come with a career. Additionally, the job readiness skills (i.e. Professionalism, Technology, Self-Advocacy, and Independent Living) will help you learn how to become independent while maintaining a job.
Program Dates: July 11 to August 7, 2026 (including weekends)
Ages Eligible: 16 to 21
Location: Baltimore, MD
With any questions or concerns, reach out to Juhi Narula at JNarula@BISM.org or Qualik Ford at qford@bism.org.
Interested in Becoming a Gold STAR Staffer?
You can find the position responsibilities and additional details in the application link here.
For Staffers
As a Gold STAR Program Staffer your role will be to serve as an instructor, leader, and mentor to the students.
Applications should be submitted by April 6, 2026. Interviews will be conducted via Zoom and are anticipated to take place in mid-April.
All offers of employment will be contingent upon a successful comprehensive background check.
Program Location: Baltimore, MD (you do not need to reside in Maryland to apply)
Staff Training: June 27 to July 1, 2026
NOTE: Staff will be required to arrive to the program location on July 9, 2026
Pay for 4-week staffing: $3,000 to $3,500
