Crystal Whitelaw is the activity coordinator at Quest’s Training Center in Apopka. Crystal, an experienced former teacher with a director’s credential in early education, started at Quest, Inc. as a skilled instructor.
“As a skill instructor, I connected with individuals on a cognitive level and met them where they were to reach their goals. I listened to their needs and wants, which helped me transition into my current role,” Crystal said.
The Power of Planning Engaging Community Activities
Now in her third year at Quest, Crystal excels in planning and implementing community-based leisure activities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Some of the most successful activities she has implemented involved collaboration between clients and staff.
From foam parties to rodeo roundups, clients and staff value teamwork to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. This approach often requires sourcing adaptive materials, enlisting volunteers, and working with a curriculum specialist to consider every detail carefully.
Crystal acknowledges the staff’s invaluable contributions in providing support and options for clients to meet their needs and goals. Whether responding to an emergency or helping with an event, they understand the importance of creating an enriching environment for clients.
“Our team is a diverse group that does a great job establishing client relationships. I wouldn’t trade them for the world,” she said.
Monthly Outings Contribute to Living a Full Life
Crystal witnesses the most impact from scheduling monthly community outings, particularly bowling. The clients’ happiness and gratitude reaffirm her passion for helping people and Quest’s mission to help individuals experience a full life.
“Seeing their faces when we come back, and hearing them say, ‘wow, that was fun,’ gives me joy,” Crystal says. “When you know that you are coming to serve individuals who may not have the same opportunities as others, you become an advocate when they cannot advocate for themselves. That’s our job.”
Volunteer Opportunities and Skill Development
In addition to her work with leisure activities, Crystal organizes volunteer opportunities at Clean the World and Second Harvest Food Bank. These pre-employment opportunities allow participants to gain valuable practical skills they can utilize to transition to supported employment services successfully. The center received recent recognition for its volunteer service during the Second Harvest Volunteer Awards.
Crystal is enthusiastic about expanding these developmental opportunities so that clients can increase their social skills. Her expertise continues to positively impact the lives of individuals at the training center as she exposes them to meaningful experiences.
Quest’s Training Centers
Quest’s Training Centers in Apopka and Tampa provide support and options for individuals with developmental disabilities seeking recreational opportunities and life-skills development activities that meet their specific needs and goals. Learn more at Training Centers – Quest, Inc. (questinc.org)
