Since 1979, Calgary Quest has been dedicated to creating a place where children and young adults with developmental disabilities can learn, grow and thrive. What began as a small school founded by passionate parents has grown into a vibrant community that includes specialized education, therapy, transition-to-adulthood programs, camps and family supports.
For 45 years, we’ve been walking alongside students and families, building opportunities, breaking down barriers, and celebrating every milestone. Today, Calgary Quest continues to honor that legacy by preparing for the future, expanding programs, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that every young person has the chance to reach their full potential.
As we celebrate this remarkable 45-year milestone, we’re inviting our community to join us in marking this special year. Throughout the year we will be sharing stories, hosting events, and honoring the people who have helped shape Calgary Quest’s journey. One highlight of the celebration will be the launch of our Builders Wall Campaign, a special initiative that recognizes the individuals and organizations whose generosity and commitment have helped make our mission possible.
Through this campaign we are aiming to raise $90,000 in honor of 45 years of impact. Each name added to the wall will represent a piece of the foundation that supports every student’s success, a visible reminder of the community that continues to build Calgary Quest. Together, we’ll continue to strengthen that legacy and lay the groundwork for the next 45 years of learning, growth, and possibility.
Help Us Build The Next 45!
Avery’s Journey at Quest
When Avery was approaching school age, her family was told she’d be placed in a classroom of over 30 students in the public system, with no support aide, until she failed. They knew she needed more.
When Avery first arrived at Quest, she was non-verbal and struggled with even the simplest transitions. Group settings caused meltdowns, and communication felt out of reach.
But at Quest, she found something different: a team that didn’t see her as a challenge, but as a capable learner with so much to give.
With the right support, Avery began to thrive.
She learned to communicate, first with visuals, then with spoken words. She started making friends, learning routines, and participating in class.
Now, Avery is confidently reading, writing, and doing math. She’s part of the school’s Coffee Cart program, where she practices real-world skills like handling money and customer service. She even recently performed on stage, an experience that once felt out of reach for her family.
Click here to read Avery’s full story.
Building Possibility: Kristin’s Story
When Kristin moved to Calgary, her family was searching for a learning environment where she would be understood, and supported.
At Quest, Kristin found a supportive community that focused on who she is and who she could become.
With the right structure and encouragement, Kristin began to flourish. She became calmer, more adaptable, and more open to new experiences. She built daily living skills, gained confidence, and developed strong connections with her peers.
Today, Kristin is a graduate of Quest High School and a participant in the Centre for Opportunity. She has begun to volunteer in the community, continues to build relationships, and explores what’s possible for her future.
As we celebrate 45 years of Quest, stories like Kristin’s remind us how powerful the right support can be, and how, together, we help build brighter futures.
The Builders Wall is a lasting tribute to the people and partners who have shaped Quest’s journey. Each “brick” represents a gift of support, building a strong foundation for the next 45 years of learning, growth, and opportunity. By adding your name to the wall, you’ll not only honor our history, you’ll help ensure a brighter future for children and young adults with developmental disabilities.
Thanks to your generosity, we’ve officially raised $45,000 to celebrate Quest’s 45th Anniversary.
Every gift you provided will help create more opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and thrive.
And now, we’re building the next chapter.
We’ve extended our initiative, with a goal to raise another $45,000 to support the growth and development of two hands-on learning spaces for our students and participants:
📖 Learning Commons💡- Barlow Campus
A shared learning and library space designed to foster curiosity, connection, and accessible, collaborative learning.
🧩 Life Skills Lab🏠 - Sunalta Campus
A dedicated space for hands-on life skills training, featuring a participant-led tuck shop, laundry area, and practical learning stations that help students and young adults build independence and confidence while learning new and mastering previous abilities.
