July 2007 Athlete

Name: Shirley Givens
Resides: Lenoir City, TN (Area 22)

Although Shirley was born in Mississippi 38 years ago, she grew up in East Tennessee. She moved from Rockwood to Lenoir City seven years ago when she married Reggie Givens, also a Special Olympics athlete. She enjoys painting, listening to music, and collecting knick-knacks. She has worked for 6 years at Taco Bell and has been named Employee of the Month 10 times in 3 years.

Shirley is very active with Special Olympics and has won numerous medals competing in athletics, basketball, bocce, bowling, and softball. She will join Team USA at the 2007 World Games, representing Tennessee in the sport of bocce. Shirley says:

"I enjoy Special Olympics because I get to meet new people, and I get to go to China this year for the World Games."