Thornton Academy Postscripts Alumni Magazine Spring 2019 | Page 8

MIDDLE SCHOOL
Dominic Ferry ’23 & Quiet Cries
While collecting diapers and other supplies at this year's
Homecoming football game, Ferry is visited by TAMS
principal Tiffany Regan Robert ’00.
T
hornton Academy Middle School student Dominic
Ferry ’23 was encouraged by his grandparents to
get involved with his community and make a difference
following a circumstance that has significantly affected his
life. Having previously lived in a home affected by domestic
violence, Ferry established Quiet Cries, an organization
whose mission is to help individuals in similar situations.
“I have personal experience with domestic violence and
how it affects people. Growing up and seeing how it affected
my mother was hard. I was lucky enough to get out of that
situation and voice my opinion,” Ferry said.
Quiet Cries makes an impact in the community by
fundraising for items that provide basic needs and comfort
to children directly affected by domestic violence. Needed
items include blankets and diapers. The blanket drives he
has hosted since establishing Quiet Cries have aided in
providing over 2,000 blankets to victims.
During Thornton Academy's 2018 Homecoming weekend,
Ferry hosted a diaper drive during the football game and
collected two car loads of diapers. In addition to the support
from the TA community, one major contributor to the
success of the diaper drive has been the Amica Companies
Foundation. This foundation provided a $1,000 gift.
Ferry's grandfather, and a partner organization, Safe Voices,
assist with hosting and publicizing events. The meaning
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Infographic by Sydney Menard
Dominic Ferry is only in eighth grade, but has already had a
positive impact on many families in the Southern Maine area.
behind the name Quiet Cries came to Dominic with some
help from his grandfather.
“My grandfather helped me with the name. When you think
of someone who has been abused, they don't really want to
talk about it because it brings up memories so that is where
‘quiet’ came from,” Dominic explained. “As for ‘cries,’ if you
think of someone who has been abused, they are going to
cry but they may also be crying for help because they are
afraid of the person who has threatened and abused them.”
Ferry and Quiet Cries have gained traction in the Maine
community and recognition from the Portland Press Herald
and WMTW-8 for recent fundraisers he has hosted to better
the lives of those suffering from domestic violence.
“I am thankful for help from my family, because without
them I wouldn't be here. Support always helps, no matter
what form it is. We need to speak up to end domestic
violence and brave people will help to end this,” Ferry said.
To support Dominic Ferry ’23
and his organization
Quiet Cries, please visit
quietcries.org
Story by Brittany Brown · Photos by Katy Nicketakis
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