Quest, Inc. is committed to creating meaningful employment opportunities that empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live full lives. Through Quest’s Business Enterprises program, participants receive hands-on training in supported workplace environments that prepare them for future competitive employment. For Anthony, this program has been a pathway to growth, independence and community.
Building Skills and Confidence
Anthony first joined Quest in 2011 through Quest’s training centers, where he gained early experience completing light custodial work. His interest in hands-on tasks and his strong work ethic eventually led him to Blossom Artisanal (now House 81), a Quest social venture focused on producing candles and soaps. When COVID–19 temporarily paused operations, Anthony stepped away — but as soon as he was able, he returned to Quest, this time joining the cup manufacturing operation.
In his current role, Anthony helps prepare and ship cups for a major hospitality and entertainment partner. This includes adding RFID tags to each cup, a crucial step that allows the company to track daily sales and maintain delivery schedules. He credits his success to those earlier employment experiences with Quest.
“At Blossom, I learned to stay consistent and focus on work. That helped me learn to follow instructions, and now I’ve been doing cups for three years.”
Over time, Anthony has taken on additional responsibilities, including assisting with loading and unloading trucks and learning how to organize pallets. These tasks have helped him develop practical math skills and gain confidence working with warehouse equipment.
Each new responsibility is preparing Anthony for his long-term goal of competitive employment in the community. He hopes to work in stocking or retail, where he can continue helping others and applying the skills he’s gained.
“Anthony has blossomed within the past year,” says Ebony Rutland, Quest’s employment services manager. “He used to stay to himself, but now he greets everyone by name and takes initiative, going above and beyond to ask how he can further assist.”
Helping Individuals Live a Full Life Through Employment
Ebony has also watched Anthony flourish socially. She says the group outings offered through Business Enterprises have played a vital role in helping him build confidence and connect with his peers. Last year, he attended his first-ever soccer game with his coworkers — an experience he talked about with excitement for days afterward.
“My favorite thing about working here is the people,” he says. “Everyone gets along, and I’ve made friends I can have fun with.”
Quest is proud to support Anthony as he continues to thrive at Business Enterprises. His dedication and growth are proof that meaningful work can enrich lives.
