“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing,” said Helen Keller, and Quinn adheres to this philosophy as well. He was determined to pursue his dream, so we jumped in to support his efforts. CIF staff and members of his network walked along side and supported Quinn as he developed the poem he planned to read, practiced presenting it, and coordinated transportation for the big day. People on his team volunteered to attend the open mic night to lend their support. Quinn turned down their offers. He wanted to have this experience completely independently – and that was the best thing that could have happened.

With bated breath and crossed fingers, the many members of Quinn’s support network watched the clock on the night of the reading. Later that evening, when the event was over, calls came in from Quinn’s concerned friends and supporters asking how it had gone. “It went great!” he said. “Now, I’m going to be on TV!” Apparently, a local TV producer happened to be in the audience and after the reading, she introduced herself to Quinn. During their conversation, the producer asked if he would be interested in being featured as an Evanston area “emerging artist” on her public access show. What an incredible connection he’d made!

On the day of the TV interview, Quinn appeared dressed smartly in his suit jacket and beret, looking every bit the artist. He sat confidently up on stage with the lights blaring and cameras turning, and answered the interviewer’s questions. He was even able to share some of his poetry. As he left the stage, he was glowing; that was clearly his moment – Quinn was a “Millionaire Poet.”

In the end, what really mattered for Quinn was that his voice was heard – that he had the opportunity to express and share his art. It wasn’t so important that he “had a million” after all…more that he “felt like a million.”

What is happening now for Quinn? It seems the interviewer’s hard-hitting style left a lasting impression on him. He’s already pursuing his new dream – to be the next Peter Jennings!

Watch our Blog, E-Newsletter and Facebook Page during our 10th Anniversary Year  for more CIF Stories of Hopes & Dreams Realized...