Quincy's Story

My name is Quincy Redmon. Before becoming a nonprofit co-founder, I was simply a kid trying to survive. There were seasons of my childhood where my family experienced homelessness. I know what it feels like to wonder where you'll sleep. I know what it feels like to have very little.

At nine years old, I suffered a devastating injury that left me in a wheelchair and on crutches for nearly a year. In school, I struggled with dyslexia that wasn't diagnosed until eighth grade.

Despite these obstacles, I refused to quit.

Football became my passion. Through hard work and determination, I became Defensive Player of the Year at Fairmont State University and earned the opportunity to sign with the Miami Dolphins as an NFL free agent. It was proof that perseverance can overcome circumstances.

Unfortunately, my NFL dream came to an unexpected end. Like many athletes, I struggled with depression after football. I found myself asking God a simple question:

"How can I help someone else?"

I realized I didn't have thousands of dollars to donate. But I could give my time. I could organize. I could serve. That question became the beginning of something much bigger than myself.

Eight years ago, I walked into OneLife Fitness carrying a simple flyer. I asked if I could place a donation bin inside the gym. The idea was simple: everyone has an extra blanket, everyone has a pair of socks. Wash them, donate them, and I'll make sure they reach someone who needs them.

The community responded. Every year since then, we have collected blankets, socks, hats, gloves, coats, and monetary donations before personally delivering them to people experiencing homelessness in Washington, D.C. That's how Red's Blanket & Sock Drive began, and it's still going strong eight years later.