Apopka is already home to one of Central Florida’s most impactful programs serving individuals with developmental disabilities.
From Camp Thunderbird on Lake Prevatt to workforce training and support services used by local families, Quest, Inc. has long been part of the community’s fabric. Now, a new grant from the NBA Foundation is set to expand that impact—helping more young people across Central Florida, including those in Apopka, prepare for life and work after graduation.
Quest, Inc. recently announced it has received funding from the NBA Foundation to support students at Quest Kids Academy, which is relocating to a new state-of-the-art campus at 500 E. Colonial Drive.
The grant will fund a range of workforce development initiatives, including financial literacy and workplace etiquette courses, internships, career camps, and hands-on job training opportunities for high school students. Participants will also be paired with dedicated job coaches to support them in employment after graduation.
“At a time in which 81% of people with developmental disabilities are unemployed, we strive to unlock new possibilities for our students,” said Quest President and CEO John Gill. “With help from the NBA Foundation, young Central Floridians are breaking barriers, understanding their full potential, and building a strong foundation as they transition into adulthood.”
The NBA Foundation works with nonprofits across the country to expand access to education and career pathways for underserved youth. This latest round of funding marks its 16th cycle of grantmaking.
“At the NBA Foundation, we’re committed to expanding access to education and career pathways for youth who have historically been left out of opportunity,” said Executive Director Ruth Jurgensen. “Quest, Inc. is doing critical work to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed in the workplace and beyond. We’re proud to support their efforts to help Central Florida youth build a strong foundation for long-term independence.”
Every day, Quest serves more than 800 individuals through education, therapy, employment services, and residential programs—helping people with developmental disabilities build independence and lead more fulfilling lives.
For Apopka residents, that mission is more than regional—it’s local.
Quest’s Camp Thunderbird, located on Lake Prevatt within Wekiwa Springs State Park, has long provided recreational and life-enrichment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. In addition, Quest’s broader network of services supports families throughout Northwest Orange County by providing access to job training, therapy, and educational programs.
As Apopka continues to grow, so does the need for inclusive services that ensure residents of all abilities have access to opportunity. Investments like the NBA Foundation grant not only strengthen Quest’s reach across Central Florida but also reinforce its role as a vital resource for the Apopka community.
Quest’s new campus—set to open this spring—will be home to Quest Kids Academy and Quest Kids Therapy, creating expanded opportunities for students and families across the region.
Key Points:
- Quest, Inc. received a grant from the NBA Foundation as part of its 16th round of funding.
- The nonprofit has a strong presence in Apopka, including Camp Thunderbird at Wekiwa Springs State Park.
- The grant will fund financial literacy, workplace readiness, internships, and job coaching programs.
- Quest serves more than 800 individuals daily through education, therapy, employment, and residential services.
- A new campus for Quest Kids Academy and Quest Kids Therapy is set to open this spring.
