Local Orlando nonprofit Quest, Inc. is expanding career opportunities for youth with developmental disabilities in Central Florida.
Quest, Inc. recently received a grant from the NBA Foundation to help students with developmental disabilities at Quest Kid Academy, which is moving into a state-of-the-art campus located at 500 E. Colonial Dr. in Orlando.
The funding supports skills development – such as financial literacy and workplace etiquette courses – as well as internships, career camps, and on-the-job training for high schoolers. Youth will be paired with dedicated job coaches during supported employment opportunities post-graduation.
“At a time in which 81% of people with developmental disabilities are unemployed, we strive to unlock new possibilities for our students,” said John Gill, President & CEO of Quest. “With help from the NBA Foundation, young Central Floridians are breaking barriers, understanding their full potential, and building a strong foundation as they transition into adulthood.”
The NBA Foundation works directly with nonprofits nationwide to connect underserved youth to educational and career development programs, with this year marking the organization’s 16th round of grantmaking.
“At the NBA Foundation, we’re committed to expanding access to education and career pathways for youth who have historically been left out of opportunity,” said NBA Foundation Executive Director Ruth Jurgensen. “Quest, Inc. is doing critical work to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed in the workplace and beyond. We’re proud to support their efforts to help Central Florida youth build a strong foundation for long-term independence.”
Every day, Quest provides more than 800 people with education, therapy, employment services and residential living – giving them the tools to achieve long-term independence. The nonprofit’s new campus, which will be home to Quest Kids Academy and Quest Kids Therapy, opens this spring.
RELATED: Downtown Orlando Campus Opening for Kids, Teens with Developmental Disabilities
From the humble beginnings of a single location serving eight individuals, to currently over 20 locations, serving over 800 individuals each day in Orlando and Tampa in Central Florida, Quest continues to help those with developmental disabilities experience a full life.
Check online for more information about Quest, Inc. and its programs.
