At Quest’s Adult Day Training Centers, dedicated team members help adults with developmental disabilities build skills, explore their interests and experience meaningful community involvement. As activity coordinator at Quest’s Training Center in Tampa, Abriana (Bri) Blount uses creativity, adaptability and a passion for enrichment to create opportunities that help participants engage with the world around them.

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, Bri shares.”

The Impact of Meaningful Experiences