Rebecca Shepherd

Hello!! friends, family, neighbors, and supporters,

My name is Rebecca Shepherd, and I am a proud Special Olympics Kansas athlete. I am reaching out to my incredible community again because I have earned the opportunity AGAIN: to represent Team Kansas at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota!

When I first started with the Special Olympics almost 15 years ago, I wasn’t sure of myself, but joining the Special Olympics Kansas family has really changed everything, but I wasn't sure about wanting to learn to play every sport; it was about discovering my own strength and realizing what I was capable of, but here are a few of the moments that made this adventure remarkable for me:

• Courage: I remember the day I had to a opportunity to try playing golf in 2015, competing for the first time. It was terrifying, but my teammates and coaches cheered me on/believed in me and I now: i have decided to participate in golf, ever since!!

• Friendship: I have definitely found a family here. My best friends are basically EVERYONE. We always have a great time!! I really don’t have a favorite coach, but our director of our team Glenn Jones has definitely had a big impact with this amazing, encouraging adventure for many years to come. 

• Achievement: All the late evening, tough  practices, stopped drinking so much soda pop, and more and more water, walking around town: has led to this: being selected to compete at the national level! I’ll be competing in Track & Field in the 400, 800, running long jump, a the “4X100 relay “i do believe”

This is more than a game; it is proof that hard work pays off, and it is a chance to inspire others across our community and state.

The USA Games are from June 20-26, 2026, and they are a massive undertaking. While my dedication and training are free, the cost of sending the entire Team Kansas delegation—including travel, lodging, uniforms, meals, and essential support staff—is substantial.

My personal fundraising goal is $1,500 to cover my portion of the team expenses.

I need your help to get me there! Every dollar you contribute is a direct investment in inclusion, health, and opportunity for me and my teammates.

Here’s how your donation helps get me closer to the starting line:

• $25 could cover my healthy meals for one day of the Games.

• $50 helps pay for necessary competition gear or my uniform.

• $100 contributes directly to the cost of travel and lodging in Minnesota.

• A donation of any size is a massive boost of confidence and support!

Join My Team. Be My Fan.

I’ve put in the time and effort on the track/field/lane. Now, I’m asking my community to step up one last time to help me cross the fundraising finish line.

Please consider donating today, but lets show the rest of the nation what the heart of Kansas can do!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me and in the mission of the Special Olympics!!

Rebecca Shepherd ❤️

Proud Special Olympics Kansas Athlete

I'm excited to join this incredible initiative! This organization's mission is very important to me and I'm proud to help them make a difference. Please support me by giving to my page. Every dollar counts! Thank you.