Don and Ruth gave birth to a beautiful little girl named Debbie who had Down's Syndrome in 1958. From that day forward, advocating to ensure Debbie's needs were met. This included working with the Omaha School Board to create an educational setting for kids with intellectual disabilities.

In 1968, Special Olympics Nebraska started. Don and Ruth quickly became involved in the movement with Debbie participating in bowling. She earned many trophies for her participation but most of all, she found a group of friends whom she loved.

In 1980 at the age of 21, Debbie left this world leaving a huge hole in the hearts who knew her. Don and Ruth continued to support Special Olympics monetarily.

Don and Ruth's daughter, Barbara started participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) program for Special Olympics throughout her career with Juvenile Probation. After retiring in 2018, Barbara went to work with Special Olympics New Mexico in the LETR program.