Jared Niemeyer is known around the state for his work with Special Olympics, and now for his part at Jared's Jams in Edina. Giving back Jared's Jams shows off its namesakes's abilities, one jar at a time by Jim McCarty | jmccarty@ruralmissouri.coop H e's met the U.S. president and vice president, addressed the United Nations twice, hung out with Missouri's governor and lieutenant governor and has crusaded to end hurtful words at Kirksville High School. He serves on the Special Olympics Missouri Board of Directors and has been known to rappel off tall buildings for its benefi t. As a Special Olympics athlete, he has competed in six sports and was selected for two USA Games. Those who have met Jared Niemeyer know him as a 12 RURAL MISSOURI | JULY 2022 person with many abilities. It's hard to imagine that someone born with Down syndrome could achieve so much in his 30 years. Now Jared is bringing his name, smile and work ethic to a unique business located on the courthouse square in Edina called Jared's Jams. The idea for the family-owned business which opened in November 2021 came from Jared's fundraising effort for Special Olympics. " The whole thing began because in 2014 Special Olympics asked Jared to speak at the United Nations, " says his proud mom, Brenda. " He came back from that experience so amazed and appreciative of the opportunity that he