TrueIcon Spotlight: Tom Mooney
“I Dare You to Tell Me I Can’t”.
For Tom Mooney, if you tell him he can’t do it, you better get ready, because he’s going to prove you wrong. Whether he is dominating the platform as a Special Olympics USA Games Gold Medalist, shaping clay in a pottery studio, or commanding the stage as an actor, Tom brings heart and determination to what he does, which positively impacts those around him.
A Life of Resilience.
Tom doesn't follow the word "impossible."
After a dedicated journey of losing 70 pounds to redefine his health, he represented New York at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando.
He did more than just compete. He brought home four medals, including two golds in powerlifting.
On top of that, he inspires everyone watching to believe in their own strength.
“There is not a moment you don’t see Tommy smiling, cheering on his friends or giving you a high five. His positivity is contagious!”
-Jared D
“You can say I have a habit of proving people wrong”
A fiercely loyal friend and a supportive teammate - Tom is the first to encourage others to never quit.
Leading While Lifting Others Up
If you know Tom, you know kindness and grit.
Tom showcases that when we rise, we bring our community up with us.
You can see it in the way he cheers from the sidelines and how he uses his social media to motivate others.
Tom proves that true power isn’t just about what you can lift; it’s about how you can lift people up along the way.
Passion, Art and the Best Job of All
When the weights are put away, Tom stays focused on the passions that make life fun:
Handmade Pottery: Tom creates his own pottery at the Broken Mold Pottery Studio. He doesn't just make art for himself; he uses his creations to help raise money and support others.
The Best Job of All: Tom’s favorite thing to do is hang out with his two nephews, Jack and Finn. He loves them more than life itself, showing that beneath his "never quit" grit is a heart of pure loyalty.
Inspiration Carried Forward
Tom’s journey is about more than just sports; it’s about a spark of brightness that inspires everyone he meets.
A Note from the Author
"Tom is a gem in the community. I am lucky to call him a friend, and I have seen his impact firsthand. Whether it is playing together on our dodgeball team, raising money for Special Olympics, actively supporting his peers, or bringing his amazing personality to everything he does, Tom’s company is a gift. I am so proud of who he is and what he stands for. He is a spark of brightness in our community, and I am honored to share his story with you.”
— Jen DeGroff
Connect & Support
We are on a mission to highlight the good in our community. Tom Mooney is a "TrueIcon" because he proves that your values: resilience, positivity, and loyalty, can take you anywhere.
Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommycmooney47/
Support the Mission: Special Olympics New York
Watch the “Let’s Go” Energy in Action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Zj2nThaZ27s
What is a TrueIcon?
A TrueIcon is a unique individual who shows up in a way that feels true to them and naturally inspires others toward positive change. They live from their passions and values, and their presence brings a spark of brightness and uniqueness to their community. Check out more TrueIcon Spotlights, or the TrueIcon Podcast now.
