At the heart of Quest’s Training Centers are the dedicated staff members who further our mission to help individuals with developmental disabilities live full lives. As the activity coordinator, Abriana (Bri) Blount has utilized her creativity and enthusiasm to introduce participants to areas of community life that are often limited or unavailable.

Bridging Art and Education

Before joining Quest, Bri accumulated diverse experiences in camp settings across the country, where she led creative departments in art, film and sculpture. With a focus on special education, she dedicated herself to blending enrichment opportunities for children and adults.

Her path led her back to Florida, where she discovered Quest and seized the opportunity to utilize her passions for art and education. At the training center in Tampa, Bri’s primary responsibilities include coordinating events and planning classes, like arts and crafts, that cater to the unique interests and needs of training center participants.

“My planning stems from observing participants in classes and providing them with more sensory and tactile experiences. It’s not just about creating something; it’s also about helping them learn to see and engage with the world around them,” Bri says.

Personalized Approaches to Recreational Services

Bri recalls an art project where adaptability was a key ingredient to participant’s success. While making sea slugs out of clay, some clients struggled to manipulate the clay independently andrequired additional support. For those who struggled, Bri softened the clay with water, increasing the pliability as well as participant confidence. For those who wanted more of a challenge, she introduced alternative materials, such as pine cones, to further stimulate their engagement. This multi-faceted approach allowed everyone to contribute and find unique ways to enjoy the activity. Bri also works to craft sophisticated experiences that reflect participant’s adult identities.

A summer glow party was a perfect opportunity to leverage community support and create an environment where training center participants could enjoy a taste of social gatherings. After securing helpful volunteers from the Rotary Club of Tampa and the support of Las Damas de Arte, Bri organized an unforgettable celebration. The on-site party featured glow-in-the-dark t-shirts, refreshing mocktails and glow tattoos. Participants were able to dance the night away surrounded by friends and create memories that will last a lifetime.

“Any activity can be designed to be more mature, regardless of the simplified tasks involved. Our participants are adults, and I want them to feel respected and empowered to have these opportunities.”

The Impact of Meaningful Experiences

Bri’s adaptability and keen understanding of participant needs allow her to tailor each event to provide what everyone desires — choice and the freedom to express themselves creatively. She measures her success by the enjoyment participants experience during events, as well as by their continued interest and engagement afterward.

Quest thanks Bri for her dedicated efforts, which ensure an environment where individuals can engage in meaningful and enjoyable experiences.

“Bri is a phenomenal employee who continually brings amazing ideas to life. She is helpful and creative, and has developed strong relationships with the individuals at our center,” says Nicci Lam, program director at Quest’s Training Center in Tampa.

Join the Team, Make a Difference

If you believe your talents and passions could help individuals at Quest’s Training Centers experience a full life, discover career opportunities here.