Gerald “Jerry” and Carol Carpenter are best known for their work with Special Olympics. Jerry became involved with the program during the 1970’s, taking on the positions of both head coach and local coordinator. Carol joined him and they spent 25 years with the organization.

Jerry was known as both a friend and partner with the athletes, doing one-on-one stints with them on and off the sports fields. Carol worked best as a coordinator. They went on to become master certified track and field officials in working some of the top amateur and college events in the country. They officiated the jumping events.

Jerry continued the work when Carol was no longer able and worked the 2008 U.S. Olympic trials and later those in 2011. He died before he was able to accomplish his dream of working the 2012 Olympics.

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