Stephan “Step” Shimkus of Manhattan, Kansas, has participated in Special Olympics for 10 years. He has trained and competed in athletics, basketball and volleyball. In the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023, he will represent Special Olympics USA in volleyball. Through Special Olympics, Step has become more social, making new friends and working to help others.
Step is employed at Goodwill Industries and spends his time outside of work with his dogs and playing video games. He most admires his father, who served in the United States Army for 21 years. During his years of service, Step and his family lived in Germany for nine years. After 17 years, Step will return to compete in the Special Olympics World Games.