Front Service Clerk Kenny Whitaker, #67, Columbia, South Carolina, eats right and exercises daily so he can compete to win.
For 20 years, Kenny has participated in the Special Olympics Summer Games, competing in the 50-meter dash and softball throwing events. In 2010, he was named the Athlete of the Year by Special Olympics of South Carolina, an honor that allowed him to carry the torch to open the 2012 Summer Games. Five years ago, he began competing with the basketball team, and in 2019, he entered the bowling competition.
“I have a lot of medals,” said Kenny, who was born with Down Syndrome. His mother, Pearl, says he has more than 30!
To stay in shape for competition, Kenny works out almost every night. He does knuckle push-ups, sit-ups and a dance-style workout. Kenny is also a rapper, so he really gets into the music when he works out. And his co-workers say he likes to show off his results by flexing his muscles.
With a little help from his mom and a few of the managers at his store, Kenny also watches what he eats. He takes a sandwich and fruit to eat at work, and he tries to eat a salad with Italian dressing every day. For treats, he loves cookies and milk.
Kenny wanted to play basketball in high school, but like many Special Olympics athletes, he didn’t understand why he couldn’t join the team. His dreams of being a star athlete came true after joining the Special Olympics, and now he’s aiming for a chance to go to the World Games.
Pearl is very proud of Kenny’s accomplishments and grateful for his Publix family.
“Publix supports Kenny 101%. Always,” she said. “They give him time off to practice and participate. I am so grateful for what Publix does, giving people with disabilities a chance to show they can work, have a job and relate to other people. I sincerely appreciate that as a parent.”
You can support associates like Kenny!
Donate to our Special Olympics Campaign.
Jan. 1 – 12
Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities. Donations made during our campaign help support the Special Olympics mission.
