SOMO News
Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) is excited to announce the induction of Jared Niemeyer into the SOMO Hall of Fame.
Jared was surprised with the honor on Thursday, Oct. 23, during a special celebration at Jared’s Jams surrounded by his family, friends, and coworkers.
Jared’s journey with Special Olympics began when he was a young boy in the North Area. Over the years, he has become one of SOMO’s most respected athlete leaders — inspiring others across Missouri, the nation, and beyond.
A two-time USA Games competitor, Jared represented Missouri in track and field in 2010 and flag football in 2014. Beyond competition, he has served as an officer on SOMO’s Youth Activation Council (YAC), a member of the National YAC for Special Olympics North America, and on the SOMO Board of Directors. He’s also a passionate Athlete Leader and Polar Plunge Ambassador in his community.
Jared’s advocacy has taken him to the United Nations, the White House, and even to a reception at the home of then–Vice President Joe Biden. His leadership has helped pave the way for inclusion and empowerment for athletes across the country.
An entrepreneur at heart, Jared launched Jared’s Jams to raise funds for SOMO’s Training for Life Campus. In 2024, he partnered with Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid to create and sell “Andy Reid’s Boysenberry Jam,” with proceeds benefiting SOMO programs.
Jared’s inspiring work has earned him honors including the 2019 SOMO Athlete of the Year, KHQA’s Hometown Hero Award, and the Missouri Mental Health Champion Award. His passion, leadership, and advocacy perfectly reflect the spirit of Special Olympics Missouri.
Congratulations, Jared, on this well-deserved honor and your induction into the SOMO Hall of Fame!