Help the Institute
The Quest Institute depends upon the interest and generosity of supporters to provide financial means to operate and carry out its mission.Welcome to the Quest Institute
The Quest Institute, Inc. is a private, non-profit, educational corporation established in 1984, incorporated and tax-exempt in 1987. It was founded with the following objectives:
1. To explore issues of human consciousness beyond the traditional limits of academic study.
2. To integrate science and spirituality in a comprehensive search for truth.
3. To stimulate spiritual and holistic human development.
4. To encourage exploration of the inner world.
5. To support interreligious dialogue as a means to global harmony and peace.
6. To facilitate the collection of funds and books in order to donate these to people in prison for their education and spiritual development.
The Quest Institute depends upon the interest and generosity of supporters to provide financial means to operate and to carry out the missions of the Institute.
Books Behind Bars
The need for literature and educational material for people in prison was made known to Kay Allison about 20 years ago when she received many letters from prisoners, teachers, librarians, and counselors asking for help in obtaining books and dictionaries. This precipitated the collection of many books and funds in order to answer their needs.
As word about free books spread throughout the Virginia prison system, letters and requests increased greatly. Over one hundred letters each week are delivered to us with hopes of receiving free books. Thousands of books have been donated to the libraries and to individuals. Also received are many thank you cards and letters from the grateful men and women who are without books and funds to purchase them.
We appreciate the assistance from the many volunteers who bring books, sort them, read the letters and select books to send.
We are making a difference – one book at a time!
Making a Difference - You Can Help
The success of Books Behind Bars depends on support from our community.
Volunteers are needed to:
» Donate gently used books
» Read letters by prisoners and match donated books with ones they have requested.
» Organize and shelve books in our library.
» Hold a book drive or postage fundraiser with your work, church, or civic group.
» Help with the Annual Bike & Bake Valentine’s Day fundraiser.
Many people in prison have little or no contact with family or friends. Becoming a pen pal would give support and encouragement to those who would welcome the opportunity to correspond with someone.
Please contact:
Quest Institute, Inc.
Kay Allison
(434) 295-3377