I am the Executive Director of Project QUEST. The person referred to in the October, 2015 email is currently enrolled in QUEST. We are pleased that she is with us and anticipate that she will succeed. QUEST is proud that in 2014-15 we served 1088 individuals and had 388 graduates. These graduates entered Project QUEST making an average wage of $9,365 and after training are working in jobs averaging $42,097 annually. Our record speaks for itself. The organization builds the economy by identifying in-demand occupations and matching participants to the living wage careers that pay a living wage and offer benefits.
Review from Guidestar
My daughter works at a hospital in San Antonio, quest told her she had been approved for school she was just waiting to be enrolled she changed her life around she is single and has a daughter then they inform her that she couldn't get it cause she is not a minority i mean what the hell after all she has been through i am personally going to let everybody i know,know how my daughter was done i am not leaving this alone if i have to hire a lawyer this is a terrible way to do someone.
Project Quest is a very important for individuals who reside in San Antonio area. It is a premier nonprofit and an economic development organization. I personally know individuals who have benefited from this program. Under the leadership of the new Executive Direct, Sr. Pearl Ceasar Pearl CDP, Directors, Staff, and volunteers, Project Quest has never been as strong. I will continue to donate and support project Quest.
Review from Guidestar
Project Quest has been amazing for me! I've always wanted to go to nursing school and with their help I've been able to attend and I'm almost done! I'm a single Mom, so when I first started the program I was freaking out on how I was going to be able to pay for school, books, child care and on top of that I worried about who was going to watch my son while I did all this. When I was getting WIC they told me about Project Quest and I figured it was worth checking out. I did and I haven't looked back! This program was great! Most of my worries were over! They will help you with everything! And Maria (my counselor) is always there to support me! She's such a positive person and even when I've gone through some difficult times while in school, she was always there and offering help and suggestions! This program, I feel I will always be endebted to and I'm a strong advocate for it and would recommend it to anyone! They are amazing and I'll never forget them and how they have helped me to achieve my Dream!
Quest has been, and continues to be a huge blessing to me and my family. I could have never attended college without the help of Quest.
Project Quest has helped me with everything that my school wouldn't including financial support, emotional support, adademic support, and especially help with navagating the beaurocracy of the school itself and the state government system. There are many deadlines we have to meet and important dates we have to know and project quest, not the school, has been the one making us all aware of the necessary steps we have to take. Maybe it's just because my school is incompetent, but I really feel like without project quest I would have missed some form I had to fill out or some important date when there was something available that was to my benefit. And they not only help with all the little things, but they also help to put school and life into perspective so that as a student and a family member and a citizen we don't go crazy. Thank you Maria and Virginia and everyone else.
I am happy that there is such a place like Project Quest. Before I knew of them my life had no sense of direction. I was always working hard and getting no where. My life needed meaning and I always wanted to go back to school but I didn't know where to start. Not to mention, I had no way of paying for college. I felt really lost and one day my mom showed me a flyer and I decided to go. It was the best decision I ever made in my life. Everyone there helped me and the counselors are great. I am so happy that this organization exists because without them I wouldn't be in nursing school now. Thanks to everyone who makes this possible!!!!
I, like many others, had been having difficulty making ends meet. With tuition rising and books never getting cheaper, I had no idea of how i was going to make it through my last semester of nursing school. Although I'm single and have no dependents, I moved away from home for nursing school and have monthly bills that just dont stop coming. I was invited to a meeting by one of my classmates and am now blessed in so many ways. Not only have they helped me financially, but the weekly meetings we attend give us that little boost of confidence and support we need when we feel overwhelmed with school. Without they're support, I don't know if i'd still be in school finishing up my last semester.
i really didnt know what to expect; all i knew was that i was trying to get help with school tuition, books, etc. i didnt qualify for grants becuz i wasnt poverty level, though i didnt even make 17K a year and i was single with no dependents, so according to the grant people i didnt need help. i had bills, insurance, rent, food, car, etc. and could barely keep my head above water. some months i had to skip payments, just to save a little to pay my tuition and books. i had already capped out my credit cards with prior tuition payments. when first preparing with project quest, i thought going back and forth for testing and interviews was a little hassel, but then i realized what i could actually gain from this program. it was alot more than just money, it was people really caring about me and really supporting me when i needed it. i didnt expect to get such great service, once i was really part of the program! the counselors are very helpful, even when i needed someone to vent to and they are always very encouraging! i only wish i knew about this when i was starting my nursing program and not during the last year, but late is better than never. i would definitely recommend this center to anyone who needs help. if there is a will, there is a way. please understand that there is criteria that has to be met, but if you keep up your end of the deal, like attending weekly meetings at school, the counselors at project quest is there to help you as much as possible.
Project Quest has been a godsend for me and my family. Due to lifes circumstances I became a single parent with 2 teenagers 3 years ago. Finding a career path at my age was very stressful. I started nursing school and a friend told me about P.Q. WOW!! They paid my tuition, books, uniforms, it was amazing. Previously everything was going on a credit card to be paid off after I was working as an R.N. They have lessened my burdens which has enabled me to concentrate more fully on my studies. They encourage us to do our best and truly care about us as individuals. Our counselor is a wonderful woman. Thanks to Project Quest, a gift from God!!
I am a single mom that has thrived to better myself for the past five years. I have worked two jobs at some points in my college career and almost felt like giving up on school and just concentrating on raising my son. Then I found Project Quest. Project Quest has helped me not only with my tution, books,and supplies for nursing school, they have help me see the light. They were able to provide me with the finacial support I needed to get thorugh this difficult nursing program as well as with the emotional support. They gave me hope when I thought there was no way out and I was thinking of dropping out of the program. I just have to say a MILLION thanks because without them I wouldn't be where I am right now, a year away from graduation!!!! I can only say that this orginazation is a blessing to whomever is helped by them.
Without Project Quest, I would not have been able to get a college education. I am the primary provider for my family so I still remained employed while going to school and Project Quest paid for my tuition and books. I would not have been able to afford this on my own. I would reccomend Project Quest to everyone.
I want to THANK Project Quest and every individual behind this non-profit organization because they have the power in changing your life 360*. I am a current student in the nursing program and even though it is a challege, I know the staff has well guided me to a rewarding career. Before Project Quest I was working a job with no advancements, now that I decided to be a nurse I feel much more confident and determined to take the challange of life. I want to provide the best of me to others who are in need of medical care. I talk about Project Quest to everyone. You got to scarifice but at the end you are well rewarded. Thank You Project Quest for your support and for believing in me!
I have been working full-time since I was seventeen. I am now a mother of a year old boy and a job is no longer what I need. I have been struggling to go through school and work. With the help of Project Quest I was able to get my tuition, uniform and books paid. Something I would have otherwise struggled to do. The whole process has been delightful and very informative. They truly want you to succeed. Now that I have been accepted to the nursing program and begin this incredible and forvever life changing journey. I truly feel like I have the confidence I will need to suceed because of this program. I am forever greatful and in debt to this program for allowing me the opportunity to become the person that my child and family can be proud of. I know this journey will be long and difficult but knowing that I may call my counselor if I have problems at school or at home gives me a safe of mind that I am not in this alone. Thank- you for giving me the chance to not be part of the statistics.
Project Quest is the best! Everyone of the staff members are helpful and supportive. For those that need a second chance for a good career this is the place to start at. They interact with you and your school, to keep you informed and prepared. Also when times are very hard they are always there to help out the cost of your text books. God bless Project Quest and United States of America. Thankyou
After losing my career due to the birth of my second child, I was scared and had no idea where to turn. I was a single mother and my son's father denied him and offered no financial or emotional support. I felt like I was cornered. I was at the WIC office and was given a pamphlet about Project Quest from one of the nurses. I was skeptical, I went to the information session. From the very first time I went to Project Quest, I received the greatest treatment. They are very supportive of all their participants and help you in any way they can to help you succeed. I am almost finished with my training and I will always be thankful and supportive of this organization for everything they have done for nort only myself, but my children too.
Project was referred to me by a friend who got her LVN license through them. I went through the application process and was accepted to receive help. Project Quest helped me register for college since I had not been to school in 10 years and was very dedicated to making me feel comfortable entering this new stage in my life. I was recently divorced and needed the financial help to attend school since I was also a mother who could not make ends meet. Even though they helped to pay for my tuition and books, they went above and beyond to give me the support I needed to get my degree. I have never experienced anything like this, the organization gave me all I needed and all they requested from me was my dedication and hard work to get through my classes. They made me want to be a better person all together. I gained so much confidence with their help. I am grateful for all they have done to help me mold myself into the person I am today. I just graduated and will be taking my RN boards (NCLEX) soon and know that I will succeed because of all the help and support Project Quest has given me. I can honestly say I would refer them to everyone that needs the help and I would like to say I had the best counselor. She helped me in so many ways with the help of her aides. They were always available and willing to help. I will never forget them and Project Quest.
I was referred to project quest by a friend that was already in the program. I always wanted to be a nurse but did not know how my dream was going to happen. Project quest has helped me with child care, money for transportation, paying tuition, buying books and scrubs. Not only did they provide assistance for my education but they were also there for emotional support as well. If project quest was not available I would not be able to provide for my family and give back to my community.
I had heard about Project Quest about 2-3 years prior to deciding to apply for the program, but really never gave it a second thought at that time. I then got to a point in my life where I was tired of working 2-3 jobs just to make ends meet & saw no real future for myself. I knew that the only way to achieve any hope for a future was to go back to school, however, with barely making enough to cover the necessities there was no way that I could pay for schooling. With Project Quest's help I was able to start school in August of 2008. I am now in my second semester of the LVN program, with an expected graduation date of August 2010. I can't stress enough how truly grateful I am for having Project Quest in my life. It is great organizations like Project Quest that help people who want to help themselves & are willing to put in the time & dedication to make a better life for themselves. I would still be working 2-3 dead-end jobs were it not for Project Quest & the great staff they have. In my opinion Project Quest is one of the few organizations around that provides you with a hand-up, not a hand-out & really deserves funding for the awesome work that they do that not only enhances individual's lives, but the community as a whole by providing training in critical career fields. There are many people like myself in the community who just need that extra help to make their dreams a reality. Helping Projest Quest will help these individuals and their families.
When I started out with Project Quest I had just had my son and was out of work for 7 months. I was tired of working dead end jobs for minimum wage($7.00hr). I knew I wanted better for myself and for my son. Unfortunatly, I had very low test scores in a Middle School grade level. They helped me to get my scores to college level in a matter of months. They also helped me to work with CCDS to get daycare for my son so I could attend classes. I am now in my second semester of college courses and will be applying for the LVN program at St. Phillips College in August of this year to graduate in August of 2011. Without Project Quest and their many employees that helped me and encouraged me everyday I wouldn't have made it this far. I believe in Progject Quest's ability to help people change thier lives for the better. I take every chance I get to spread the word about this amazing program.
I absolutely love Project Quest! One goal of mine was to continue education and live up to one of my dreams of becoming a nurse. I heard great things about PQ through friends while i was working as a nursing assistant, so i took it upon myself and called, made an appointment! From that day forward, Project Quest has been Fantastic!..I was able to take prerequisites, enroll in the LVN program, (which i never thought i could do, but the encouragement and motivation i got from them really helped) and now have the liberty to have a successful career for my son and I. This is the beginning of our new lives! Thanks to Project Quest and the wonderful staff, my dream of becoming an LVN would not have existed if i hadn't called..I am so grateful for all their help. Always!
My name is njima nkenna,my friend introduced me to project quest,when i was struggling with payments of my school fees & books,project quest selected me,helped me finacially & worked with me throughout my program,helped & adviced me,i didnt have any other problem in school until i finished my program.i am now a graduate vocational nurse all because of project quest staff & all that help support & finance the project,thank you so much especially my counsellor Hugo,project quest made my dream come true,am now waiting to take my board exams,pls if you need help go to project quest they will not only help you,they will work with you.thank you so much if you support project quest,they are doing a very good work in making a difference in the life of people like me.thanks you so much project quest & staff.
I heard about Project Quest through both of my cousins. They completed their program successfully with the help of Project Quest. I had not been to school for 15yrs and I was very scared to go back, but Project Quest made the process very easy. Without their encouragement and financial help I would not be where I am today. I completed the LVN program and am currently waiting to take my board exam to recieve my nursing license! I am always telling people about Project Quest and recommend it to anyone who wants to have a chance to a great opportunity! Thank you Project Quest! I'll never forget what you did for me and my family!
My Aunt told me about the program when I was going thru a divorce and struggling with keeping my home from foreclosure, paying the bills and taking care of my family. Project QUEST selected me for training and after graduating I became employed within 30 days which doubled my income. I today know how much Project QUEST changed my life, my children's lives and today can see the impact it has made in the lives of my grandchildren. I also still own my home and my appreciation for this program is immeasurable. Thank you Project QUEST staff and for all those that make this opportunity available to those like me.
Through Project Quest, I was able to finish nursing school instead of adding the stress of working and trying to study for my classes. They paid for my tuition, books, and fees to take the state board. I was given extra study aids that helped me with my studies. The counselors and staff are so nice and helpful. They really care about you and help you keep your morale up. They taught me to do a better resume and helped work on my interviewing skills. I don't know where I would be by now if it hadn't been for Project Quest.
I first saw the flyers for Project Quest at my local library. My first thought was that it was too good to be true and that there must be a catch. I ignored it for about three years, until I decided to call them to see what it was about. I went to one of their orientation sessions and it was all real, it was a city organization that wanted to help people get trained in skilled jobs. I applied, qualified and now I am going to school. They have really helped me achieve my goals by taking care of the economic aspect of my education. They have helped me with books, tuition, career counseling and most importantly with moral support.
I found out about Project Quest during the SAC Nursing Program orientation. I did not apply for assistance at that time because my family is not considered "low income". I applied during the "Bring a Buddy" promotion because a classmate told me she had qualified even though she is not considered "low income". What a shock it was for me when I found out Project Quest was going to help me with partial tuition and books. In this day when the economy is so bad, it is a relief that this organization is willing to help so many individuals. I constantly recommend this program to all new students I encounter. It's a great program with access to lots of resources for those in need.
This year the food pantry has helped my family and I through this year since I lost my job in July 09 and have sought to further my education. Because we have had to live on one income, we have had to seek out other ways to meet our needs. The food pantry has been a great blessing and helping fulfill thoses needs and giving my family peace of mind. I must mention the kindness of the workers. The efforts should be commended.
Project Quest has been very helpful to me. Through Project Quest I have been able to stay in college as they are helping me with tuition and book assistance. They also go the extra mile and help me with food. They really try to help in every way possible to help students succeed.
I work closely with Kenitra Walker, the Volunteer/Food Pantry Coordinator at the Quest Center as a pantry volunteer. She treats me and everyone who comes in the office with kindness, respect, and compassion. My working here has been a very pleasant experience.
I was welcome by Kanitra Walker. She is very pleasant and so, helpful. She answers any question that I have. All is organized well. All the people there are very friendly. Kanitra has stated, that I can work any hours. I enjoy working with people and get to see these special families. Thank you, Janie Diaz
very greatful for help from this office & Ms walker. I'm a senior lost job in April '09 and was in need of food and job. MS Walker has been very kind and generous. I have tried to call the city numbers for help, but they just say they will call you back and never do. I have no family in San Antonio, so this really helps me. Hopefully I will find work soon. Thank you so much.
I was impresed with the dedication and effort of the Volunteer Coordinator Kenitra Walker who directed the center. It is located in the community it serves. It is unfortunate that in the US these types of organizations are needed. While we were there it was clear that many people recieve needed food from this facility. The staff was diligent in coordinating the volunteers. Impressive.
I found project quest on the united way website while attempting to find a nonprofit organization for my office to volunteer. Many people focus on the larger organizations. When I researched project quest I was amazed at how much this small staff of two provides for their community; from providing food, tax assistance and even financial assistance. They are amazing. Hearing the stories of how they have helped the community from all walks of life from infants to seniors. I know I was touched. What people don't realize is how these organizations have to be prepared to be counselors as well. Some will be overjoyed while others to embarrassed to talk. My advice, to those in need, is to open up to the staff tell them what you need and I assure you the angels will provide. Life is ever-changing; if pressures have you down just wait them out. That is why these programs are made available. Great staff and my office has decided to sponsor this organization for all future volunteer efforts whether it be individually or as a team again.