For Jimmy Clark, leadership isn’t about standing in the spotlight. It is about lighting the way for others. At 35, with more than two decades as a Special Olympics athlete, Clark has proven that his dedication extends far beyond the playing field. With countless competitions to his name, he remains equally committed to advocacy, personal growth, and inspiring those around him.
“We are leaders,” Clark said. “We’re stronger when we work together. Be your dream, and while you're at it, cheer on other people.”
That’s not just a philosophy, it’s a call to action.
After attending the 2025 Special Olympics Leadership Academy in Nashville, Clark walked away energized and inspired. The experience ignited a new passion for storytelling and media. He is now focused on creating a platform to elevate the voices of Special Olympics athletes everywhere.
“You learn a lot of new things,” Clark said about the Leadership Academy. “It got me even more interested in media and promoting the work we do here at Special Olympics.”
He envisions a future in podcasting, radio or even television, mediums he sees as essential for raising awareness about the mission of Special Olympics.
“I wouldn’t mind doing a podcast,” he said. “Maybe getting into radio or television. I’m passionate about this organization, and I want more people to know what we’re doing.”
Clark’s athletic career spans basketball, flag football and volleyball, and he is currently involved in the Train 4 Life™ program. This initiative equips athletes with tools for lifelong wellness by teaching healthy habits related to exercise and nutrition.
“It teaches you how to exercise, how to be healthy, what to eat,” he explained. “When you’re training all the time, it benefits your performance. It pushes you.”
Now active in at least 17 states, Train 4 Life™ is helping athletes like Clark stay engaged with their physical and mental wellness year-round, not just during competition season.
Clark takes pride in being part of something that’s grown from humble beginnings into a global movement. He shared that he often reflects on the origin story of Special Olympics, founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver more than 50 years ago, and is astonished by how far the organization has come.
“It’s remarkable,” he said. “To think this all started in a backyard, and now we have national and world games. We have new programs, more states involved, and it just keeps on growing.”
His journey is a powerful reminder of what Special Olympics makes possible — opportunity, community, and leadership beyond the games.
Looking ahead, Clark carries a message of determination and purpose.
“Be driven. Let nothing get in your head. Passion is everything.”
