Lauren Nelson was honored for fundraising in support of people with development disabilities and was recognized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals for her dedication and innovation.
Quest, Inc.’s Vice President of Philanthropy Lauren Nelson was recognized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Central Florida Chapter for her innovative leadership. Lauren Nelson was presented with this year’s Terri S. Chastain Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional – one of the AFP’s highest honors for a Certified Fund-Raising Executive.
Since joining Quest in February of 2023, Nelson has built a strong philanthropy infrastructure within the organization, allowing Quest to make giving meaningful for donors at any level. Known as both a visionary leader and hands-on colleague, she is equally comfortable shaping strategy in the boardroom as she is setting up fundraising events, leading program tours for prospective supporters, or working alongside volunteers.
Under her guidance, Quest has reached significant milestones, including:
- Record-breaking success at Quest’s annual signature fundraiser, Wine Quest, generating more than $1.2 million over the past three years.
- Launch of ClubQ62 in early 2025, a monthly giving program generating more than $2,500 per month and steadily growing.
- Significant expansion of grants with engagement from Universal Orlando, Dr. Phillips Charities, Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, AdventHealth and many more.
- Expansion of the employee giving program, which grew from fewer than 20 participants to 110 donors in just one year.
“Lauren is an innovator and a problem-solver whose leadership has elevated Quest’s culture of philanthropy to new heights,” said John Gill, President and CEO at Quest, Inc. “Her ability to inspire both her team and the community ensures that Quest can continue delivering life-changing services to individuals with developmental disabilities.”
Lauren Nelson and the other 2025 AFP Central Florida Chapter’s honorees were celebrated during the annual National Philanthropy Day awards banquet.
For over 60 years, Quest, Inc. has transformed the lives of thousands of adults and children with developmental disabilities through a range of services proven to increase capabilities and quality of life, serving over 500 individuals each day in Orlando and Tampa. To learn more about how to support Quest, Inc. in providing services that allow children and adults with developmental disabilities to experience a full life, visit Questinc.org.
