Quest Village is an innovative residential community for independent adults with developmental disabilities nestled in the vibrant community of East Orlando. Among its thriving residents is Kamisheba, whose journey shows that independence is within reach for all at Quest Village.

A New Beginning: Touring and Moving into Quest Village

Kamisheba first discovered Quest Village through the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Encouraged by a staff member, she attended an open house with her aunt Clarice that would change their lives forever.

“It was amazing to see all those people there about to become residents as well as the staff,” Kamisheba recalls. “We saw a sample house of what it would be like to live in there.”

Through orientation gatherings and meetings with staff, Kamisheba and Clarice agreed that moving into Quest Village was a natural fit for her. Move-in day was a defining moment. The modern apartment units, which include a porch, Wi-Fi capabilities and new appliances, excited her as she realized she could design her space her way.

“It was very surreal. I remember opening the door myself, and although there was no furniture in there, I was amazed to see that I would get my own place,” she said.

Initially, she needed time to adjust to living alone, but she found support through staff and friendships with other residents. The community center’s hospitality kitchen and multi-purpose room gave Kamisheba a strong sense of community.

Some of her favorite memories include joining book clubs, attending parties and celebrating the birthdays of her fellow residents. She also enjoys access to the computer room, where she can browse the internet and learn more about her interests and the world around her.

Embracing Independence Through Easy Access

Now, with six years at Quest Village, she is empowered to navigate her life confidently. Kamisheba proudly works full time at the airport, and due to Quest Village’s easy access to transportation, she can safely get to and from her job. She candidly shares that she no longer has barriers to early obstacles like paying bills and asking for help.

“[Quest Village] enabled me to get used to being independent, doing things on my own and being able to ask for help, which is hard for me because I enjoy my independence,” Kamisheba says.

Access to entertainment at the Waterford Lakes Town Center has also helped Kamisheba maintain the independence she desires. She can participate in the community by shopping at her favorite stores or going to the movie theater or bowling alley.

Independent Living at its Best

Kamisheba and her aunt Clarice are thankful for the peace and independence Quest Village provides. She exemplifies how independent adults with developmental disabilities can develop self-sufficiency and carve their path to a fulfilling life when given a supportive environment.

Learn how Quest Village can help your family and loved one reach independence today at Quest Village—Quest, Inc.

Marlon Jones has served as the community support coach at Quest Village since its inception in 2017. With a background in psychology and a passion for helping others, he fosters greater independence and community among residents.

Quest Village is an innovative residential community for independent adults with developmental disabilities. As a community support coach, Marlon provides services to meet each resident’s needs, including accompanying them to doctor’s appointments, helping them pay their bills, assisting them with their budgets, and filling their prescriptions. He supports residents with these everyday life skills so they can learn to live independently.

“We offer endless support; residents can come to staff for everything. I think they begin to feel more at ease and open up to us, allowing us to assist them with whatever they might need,” Marlon says.

Building Independence and Community

A crucial part of Marlon’s mission is promoting social interaction and community engagement. He ensures everyone feels accepted and encourages residents to share interests and activities with fellow residents and staff. Whether he’s ordering pizza for the group or working out with residents in the gym, he enjoys any opportunity to build relationships with the residents.

“Marlon’s office is the “party” office of Village. All the residents hang out and visit him on their off days from work. He engages with everyone, and Quest Village would not operate without him,” says Shawna Wallace, director of Quest Village.

Over time, these interactions foster lifelong friendships, leading residents to participate in offsite activities like dinners and movie outings. Due to his efforts, they feel empowered to explore and independently engage within the community.

Milestones and Growth at Quest Village

Marlon celebrates countless milestones with residents. He’s observed remarkable transformations, such as residents breaking out of their shells and making friends or individuals who once struggled to maintain employment becoming supervisors in their fields. This growth reflects the residents’ progress and highlights the supportive environment the staff fosters.

“Seeing residents evolve is amazing. I’ve been here from day one, so seeing where they were and where they are now lets me know there’s a need for Quest Village,” Marlon says.

He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining close relationships with residents’ families, who offer invaluable insights into their needs. This collaboration significantly enhances his ability to provide adequate support and allows families to utilize his knowledge and kindness to remain up-to-date on their loved one’s progress.

Celebrating Inclusivity and Teamwork

Marlon embodies the spirit of Quest Village through his unwavering dedication to residents’ well-being and growth. As Quest continues to foster independence and community connections, we are grateful for Marlon’s commitment to building a supportive, engaging environment that enriches lives.

“Marlon is the best team player. He communicates well and ensures everyone is treated fairly and held accountable. He is a breath of fresh air to work with and brings smiles and joy to the workplace,” Shawna says.

Future residents and family members can learn more about Quest Village at Quest Village – Quest, Inc.

Communication and transitions can be challenging for many children. One child, whom we will refer to as Alex, has made significant strides in managing these moments since joining Quest Kids Therapy eight years ago.

Initially, Alex was nonverbal when they began therapy at age two. This led to frustration expressed through tantrums, and transitions from preferred to less preferred activities caused further distress, resulting in lengthy meltdowns. With the help of ABA therapy, Alex’s behavior and communication significantly evolved over the years.

“This year, Alex has not needed any support in the classroom for behavior issues. Their refusals to complete work are low and short-lived, and their compliance and strategies to manage frustration have generalized to the school environment,” says Jen Simon, senior Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Quest Kids Therapy.

These improvements have positively impacted family dynamics, making daily life at home and in public much smoother. Independence has soared; Alex can get ready for school, shower, and go to bed alone. The journey has also been educational for Alex’s mother. Attending numerous parent training sessions has taught her to apply ABA strategies outside Alex’s sessions.

“I was inspired to complete and get certified to become a Registered Behavior Technician, which was extremely helpful to learn the ABA speak,” says Alex’s mom. “I now understand how to create a ‘chain’ or technique to help Alex learn something. If I have a question on how to do that, I can ask their BCBA, and she can speak to me in that ABA speak, and I can turn around and implement it at home.”

Dealing with behaviors that result from autism spectrum disorder can be challenging for families. Alex’s mom encourages others experiencing similar journeys to rely on support from Quest’s team and document those challenges. Looking back at documented moments can remind parents of just how far their children have come and the parallel growth in themselves.

Quest Kids Therapy is proud to witness Alex’s success and notes that they will graduate from therapy soon.

*In this article, we use the pseudonym “Alex” to protect the confidentiality of our clients and their families. We value their privacy and seek to share their inspiring stories while ensuring their identity remains secure. *

This article is the first of an exciting series explaining the benefits and strategies of ABA therapy for children and teens! In this piece, we’ll explore an in-depth definition of behavior analysis, the training behind the Quest Kids Therapy clinical team, and how ABA can treat autism spectrum disorder (ASD) throughout a person’s life!

What is Behavior Analysis? 

Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior. As experts in behavior analysis, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are trained to assess the reason why people behave the way they do and the skills, abilities, and preferences of everyone they assist. Every treatment plan embodies the core principles of ABA and is backed by science.

The Treatment Team: Roles and Responsibilities

BCBAs only make up part of an individual’s treatment team. Essential team members include Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and, at times, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs). Technicians and analysts work closely together on every case. RBTs are responsible for implementing the treatment plan a behavior analyst develops.

During an ABA therapy session, the RBT will teach specific skills to your loved one during free play time and/or pre-planned structured activities. They do this via many strategies, including breaking down complex skills into smaller steps, using prompts (i.e., providing hints), and giving rewards for desired behavior.

RBTs are mandated to have a behavior analyst supervise a percentage of their sessions. During these supervision sessions, the analyst will model different teaching strategies to the RBT, observe the RBT in action, and provide feedback on the session. Quest Kids Therapy is dedicated to providing quality supervision as a vital part of ensuring treatment is being provided as written by the entire team.

However, the most important members of a client’s treatment team are the caregivers! Studies show that ABA therapy is most effective when parents implement their child’s ABA programs and protocols at home. That’s why Quest Kids Therapy (and insurance) requires parent training sessions and appreciates all of our parents’ and caregivers’ hard work!

Who and How We Serve at Quest Kids Therapy

Quest Kids treats clients as young as 15 months up to young adulthood. We have utilized ABA to teach hundreds of individuals skills such as sign language, speaking aloud, toilet training, classroom readiness, job readiness, safety skills, self-care and so much more!

Whatever skill your loved one is learning, you can be assured the Quest Kids Therapy team is committed to providing high-quality collaborative services. Thank you for being a part of and choosing Quest Kids Therapy!

Quest, Inc. has operated its adult day training center in Tampa for 40 years. At the center, regularly scheduled inclusionary events, including community outings and on-site activities, provide individuals with developmental disabilities the chance to practice life skills that meet their needs and goals.

Building Meaningful Relationships From the Start

Madilynne is new to Quest’s Training Center in Tampa but has already gained skills for successful, meaningful and enjoyable experiences. Known as the social butterfly, she appreciates opportunities to hang out with friends, laugh and have fun. Her ability to make people feel comfortable in her presence also led her to start a supportive relationship with her boyfriend, Nick.

“Maddie has jumped right into the center and fits in so well. She has helped many others, including Nick, come out of their shells because she is so positive, fun, outgoing and social,” says Nicole Lam, program director at Quest’s Training Center in Tampa.

The Importance of Fostering Independence and Confidence

One of our primary goals at Quest’s Training Centers is to foster individuals’ independence, confidence and competence. Madilynne embodies this mission in the areas of cultural and social development.

She thrives on opportunities to support others, eagerly stepping in to help her peers get organized and enjoy their day. Her enthusiasm shines through when setting up lunches, assisting staff and teachers during activities, or contributing her creative touch to events with decorations and photos.

Community Engagement and Commitment to Helping Others

Madilynne also participates in Meals on Wheels and is grateful to volunteer with the community every chance she gets. These areas of community life are often limited or unavailable to the individuals we serve.

“It would be a good thing to take care of people. I used to take care of my grandma all the time before she passed away, and it was my main thing while my dad was at work, and it was good because I always used to help,” Madilynne says.

Quest is committed to ensuring the individuals we serve experience full lives. The team is thrilled to have Madilynne at the training center and provide her with the skills she needs to improve her quality of life. Her charisma is appreciated, and everyone can learn from her ability to be inclusive and helpful to others.

Quest, Inc. is proud to offer staffing solutions in the healthcare, dining and hospitality industries. This initiative meets business partners’ needs while fulfilling our mission to advance employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Employment Continuum and Business Enterprises Programs

Through Quest’s Employment Continuum, we offer Business Enterprises programs operated within our facilities with constant staff supervision and assistance. These programs aim to allow participants hands-on training that can be utilized for future work opportunities in the community.

Apryl has spent nearly five years working with Business Enterprises, adding RFID tags to cups for a large hospitality and entertainment company. The tags allow the company to track how many cups they sell daily. Each individual is tasked with tagging one box of cups daily to maintain a weekly delivery schedule.

Excellence in Production: Apryl Exceeds Expectations

The production process is Apryl’s favorite part of the job. With her own workstation that allows her to move at her own pace, Apryl exceeds expectations by completing three boxes daily. She is the fastest worker, finishing a box of cups in 45 minutes compared to the average three-hour time frame to complete the task. When the cups are finished, she eagerly loads the trucks for drop-off and helps unload them into the warehouse when new shipments arrive.

“Apryl has good working skills, and she’s been consistent. She does very well, and we can feel her absence when she’s not here,” said Teresa Wright, production coordinator-trade at Business Enterprises.

The Importance of Individualized Employment Opportunities

It is important for the individuals we serve to have employment opportunities that match their needs and preferences. While Apryl is limited in speech, working on the cups maximizes her workflow abilities while offering growth opportunities. She has learned to manage her time, improve her financial literacy, and gain social skills.

“We’re fortunate to have this business partnership that helps our clients mature,” said Teresa. “These individuals are preparing to work in the community, and this is a training ground for them to move to the next level and learn the work ethics needed to succeed in the community.”

Quest is thankful to have Apryl as a hardworking and dedicated Business Enterprises work program member. Her success exemplifies how individuals with developmental disabilities can thrive with the right opportunities.

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)

National Disability Employment Awareness Month celebrates the contributions people with disabilities make to America’s workplace and economy. This year’s theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All,” and Quest, Inc. remains committed to providing the individuals we serve with meaningful employment opportunities.

Our Employment Services team collaborates with students and job candidates to develop an individualized learning or job placement plan. Using Quest’s Employment Continuum of evaluation, education and placement service offerings, our team provides the individuals we deserve with a strategic, intentional path toward success.

Evaluation Services

Quest offers discovery assessment services through Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) referral by the State of Florida. Assessments occur over five to eight meetings before an evaluator conducts phone interviews, writes a detailed plan and schedules a final meeting to discuss results.

Once a candidate has been approved, we will work alongside the individual to find a meaningful and sustainable work experience. If a client wishes to work but has not been approved, Quest will assist with the referral process.

Educational Services

Work Readiness Training Program

Quest’s work readiness training program teaches executive functioning skills like conflict resolution, time management and effective communication through direct instruction lessons and role-playing scenarios. This approach prepares candidates to collaborate effectively with others and excel in meeting their supervisors’ demands.

Project SEARCH

Quest also partners with the Osceola County School District and the Florida Division of VR within the Project SEARCH program. Project SEARCH is a transition-to-work internship program for individuals with disabilities. Through hands-on training, interns acquire employability and marketable work skills while participating in three rotations across various career paths. These educational opportunities give our individuals the best chance to qualify for and maintain a career.

Employment Opportunities

We also offer business enterprises, mobile crews and internship programs based on independence, assistance and behavioral levels. Business enterprise programs are operated within Quest facilities. An example is Blossom Artisanal, a social venture created by Quest to provide a safe and supportive work environment for adults and teenagers with developmental disabilities.

Mobile crew programs are operated within community partner locations with constant staff supervision or assistance, like Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) recycling, where clients separate wire and metal. The mutually beneficial partnership helps participants develop their skills while contributing to the workforce. Internship programs are operated within community partner locations with fading staff supervision or coaching. This includes WORKS Accelerator, a 12-week paid internship program that helps eligible individuals for VR find jobs after high school.

Placement Services

The final piece of the continuum is placement services for candidates needing no long-term supervision and fading coaching. Services include job pursuit and job retention coaching. If a specific job is not available, the team will create one. Once employment is attained, a Quest employment specialist is available for one-on-one workplace training or regular visits if additional support is required to ensure success.

Great talent exists at Quest. By continuing to find opportunities for access that lead to equity and success, we further our mission of helping individuals with developmental disabilities experience a full life. To learn more about Quest’s Employment Services and how you can get involved, visit Employment Services – Quest, Inc. (questinc.org).

John joined Quest’s Training Center in Apopka (TCA) in 2018 and has made significant strides in personal growth. John found joy and independence at the center, going on community outings, making friends, developing hobbies and proudly preparing his own meals. Now, he uses his independence to serve others.

Personal Growth and Enthusiastic Volunteering

One of the most admirable aspects of John’s experience at TCA is his enthusiasm for volunteering. He takes great pride in his work at Second Harvest Food Bank and was recently recognized for his outstanding service. “It feels good to volunteer,” John says. His love for volunteering benefits the community and brings him a sense of fulfillment and pride.

Community Engagement and Strong Connections

When he is not volunteering, John embraces the opportunities for community outings planned by the center. Whether it’s a trip to the movie theater, an Orlando Magic game or the bowling alley, he eagerly participates and enjoys these experiences. While on-site, John collects DVDs and plays Connect 4 with friends.

John has built strong connections within the community at TCA and even started dating.

“His relationship with his girlfriend is wonderful. He helps her out. He locks the door at their apartments and carries her purse. He’s a good man who has greatly improved,” said Montanique Maxwell, a skill instructor at TCA.

Making a Positive Impact

We celebrate John’s personal growth due to his determination and the daily support he gets at Quest’s Adult Day Training Center. The individualized goal plans created by Quest provided the environment he needed to maximize his potential and experience a full life.

To learn more about the customized skill development and recreational services that Quest’s Adult Day Training Centers provide, visit questinc.org/training-centers/

Denysha Moore is an exceptional direct support professional at Quest’s Training Center in Tampa. For the past year, she has dedicated herself to assisting clients with one-on-one activities, personal care, sensory skills and more.

From Nursing Homes to Quest’s Training Center in Tampa

Her passion for serving others stems from becoming a mother, but continues throughout her career. Before joining Quest, Denysha was a Certified Nursing Assistant for 14 years, gaining valuable experience in nursing homes. Her deep-seated desire to form genuine connections and make a positive impact on the lives of others drove her decision to transition to Quest.

“I just fell in love with it,” Denysha says. “I love to serve others; it’s my passion.”

Providing Exceptional Care for Clients to Experience Full Lives

Denysha is committed to providing the best possible care. She takes the time to understand client preferences, from their choice of music to the sensory items that bring them comfort. Regardless of their level of functioning, she believes all individuals deserve decision-making abilities and to feel valued and supported.

“While they’re at the center, I’m going to treat them right with kindness and respect,” Denysha says. “I’m going to do my job, I’m going to do the best I can, and I’m going to keep getting better.”

Team Work Makes the Dream Work at Quest

The supportive team at the center strengthens Denysha’s dedication and passion for her work. She speaks highly of her supervisors, who take an active interest in her well-being during work hours and off the clock. Denysha particularly values teamwork, emphasizing how the staff comes together like a family to help clients succeed.

“This is the best team and company I’ve worked for in a long time,” Densyha says. “I’m happy to be a Quest team member.”

Denysha’s hard work is a testament to the positive impact that direct support professionals can have on the individuals Quest serves. Her commitment to treating clients respectfully and kindly embodies Quest’s core values.