John Gill
John Gill (President & CEO of nonprofit Quest, Inc.)
In Summary:
John Gill, president and CEO of Quest Inc., calls on Central Florida employers to expand employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities through internships, training, and more accessible hiring practices. He explains how clear expectations, consistent communication, and everyday skill-building can help people succeed while strengthening workplaces. Gill also highlights Quest’s resume assistance, workplace training, and job placement services.
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The value of having a job encompasses far more than a paycheck; it’s a declaration of purpose, structure and independence.
And for those with developmental disabilities, such as autism and cerebral palsy, the benefits of being employed can hold even more weight. Yet around 8 in 10 people who make up this segment of the population don’t have a job. Compare that to the country’s overall unemployment rate, which is hovering around 4%.
Related: AdventHealth grant helps Quest expand transportation access for people with developmental disabilities.
The disparity is jarring, and it’s not because people with disabilities lack interest or skill. Rather, it’s the result of physical, societal and attitudinal barriers ranging from accessibility and transportation to bias and stigma – hurdles that can make launching a career feel like an insurmountable task.
It’s a widespread issue that’s also an avoidable one.
I encourage our community to commit to progress. If you’re a business owner or part of a hiring team, open your door just a little wider. Make the hiring process more available by welcoming people of all abilities into internships or job training programs. Many of our community partners are surprised to learn that individuals with developmental disabilities have an exceptionally high job retention rate and excel at precise tasks and pattern recognition. The folks we place in community employment and training positions have an over 90% retention rate after ninety days.
When a person with disabilities joins your team, keep in mind that everyone learns and works differently. Changes that help one employee thrive, such as clearer expectations, better training, or more consistent communication, often make the workplace more effective for everyone. Inclusive practices don't create barriers to success; they create pathways to it.
This journey to professional success doesn’t start at the workplace. Parents can walk down this road with their child years before they’re old enough to apply for a job. Think of your home as a simulated work environment in which everyday chores – like unloading the dishwasher or gathering ingredients for a meal – are a chance to learn. What may seem like inconsequential moments are, in fact, vital in building your child’s confidence in developing new skills.
And if you’re a community member who doesn’t know someone with developmental disabilities, there’s still a role to play. Strive to be accepting and create an environment where anyone can flourish across all areas of their life. Be patient when a grocery store cashier with disabilities rings up your items – kindness can go a long way.
And remember: When we embrace a world built on equality, everyone wins.
That’s what we call the “curb-cut effect,” a phenomenon that began with sidewalk ramps. Initially designed for wheelchair users, these infrastructure changes have made it easier for everyone to get around – whether you’re pushing a stroller or out on a walk with an older loved one. It just goes to show that one modification made for a specific group can end up benefiting us all.
However small, change makes a difference. If just a single person creates a new workplace opportunity for people with developmental disabilities, that’s one more layer of support for Central Floridians. Now imagine what could be done if we all came together for this mission.
Year round, Quest, Inc. celebrates opportunity, advocacy and achievement through our services, including resume assistance, workplace training and job placements. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about our programs, visit QuestInc.org or call 407.218.4300.
John Gill is president and CEO at Quest Inc., a local nonprofit organization that helps people with developmental disabilities in all stages of life through education, skill acquisition, housing, employment, therapy and recreational programs.
Key Points:
- Employment can support purpose, confidence and independence for people with developmental disabilities.
- Transportation, accessibility, bias and stigma can create obstacles to finding work.
- Employers can expand opportunities through internships, job training and accessible hiring practices.
- Families can help children develop workplace skills through everyday responsibilities at home.
- Quest Inc. offers resume assistance, workplace training, and job placements; information is available at QuestInc.org or 407-218-4300.
