Jenny Hill: Looking Forward to Making an Impact

Great Falls athlete Jenny Hill has been a dedicated Special Olympics competitor for over 27 years. As a member of the Hornets team, she has showcased her skills across a wide range of sports, including Golf, Basketball, Bocce, Swimming, Gymnastics, Softball, Powerlifting, and Bowling. But her athletic pursuits don’t stop there—she also competes as a figure skater outside of Special Olympics.

Jenny’s passion for sports and leadership has led her to become a Special Olympics Global Ambassador and a member of the Athlete Leadership Council. Her dedication to the movement extends beyond competition as she continues to advocate for inclusion and awareness in her community. Her newest honor, being selected as the most recent Law Enforcement Torch Run ® (LETR) Athlete Ambassador, is more than an accolade. She looks forward to spreading the LETR® mission and supporting the officers who spend their time with Special Olympics.

A Legacy of Excellence

Before moving to Montana, Jenny lived in Oregon, where she earned several prestigious state awards for her achievements, including the Governor’s Gold Award in 2006, the Pride and Performance Award in 2005, and the Oregon Sports Award in 2005. She has also represented Special Olympics on national and international stages, competing in Gymnastics at the 2006 USA Games in Iowa and the 2003 World Games in Ireland.

Beyond her athletic endeavors, Jenny works as a lobby host at McDonald’s, where she enjoys interacting with customers and being part of her community.

The Power of Friendship and Inclusion

Jenny fondly remembers her school years, where she was fortunate to have a supportive environment. Unlike many individuals with intellectual disabilities who face bullying, Jenny was surrounded by acceptance and encouragement. She credits a special friend, John, for helping her see her disability not as a limitation but as part of what makes her unique. She acknowledges that many people may not understand what it’s like to have an intellectual disability simply because they haven’t been exposed to it. However, she believes that when people spend time with Special Olympics athletes, they experience a profound sense of joy and connection—what she describes as filling their “love cup.”

Overcoming Fears and Embracing Leadership

Jenny’s journey has also led her to overcome personal challenges. She once felt uneasy around people in uniform, but her involvement with the LETR® program changed that. Through Special Olympics, she has built positive relationships with law enforcement officers, developing a deep appreciation for their role in keeping the community safe. Now, as the newest LETR® athlete ambassador, she is honored to support their work and continue raising awareness for both law enforcement and Special Olympics.

A Family’s Support

Jenny credits Special Olympics with helping her form friendships and build confidence, especially during her transition to Montana. She also acknowledges the unwavering support of her family, who have been by her side every step of the way.

Her mother, Sue, reflects on Jenny’s remarkable journey:

“With Jenny thriving as an athlete leader and LETR (Law Enforcement Torch Run) Ambassador, sometimes I think back on the nonverbal, often withdrawn little one who had very few relationships outside of our family, and I am in awe of how much she has grown! She has her own sphere of influence and friends from all over the world—people whose lives she has touched and who have been inspired by her tenacity, strength, and sassy spunk! We all give a lot of credit to her experiences in Special Olympics.”

Jenny’s story is a testament to the power of inclusion, determination, and community. Her journey from a shy child to an accomplished athlete and leader is an inspiration to all.

Congratulations, Jenny, on being the newest LETR athlete ambassador! Your dedication and spirit continue to make a difference in the lives of so many.