Life has a way of knocking us down, but for some, every setback is a setup for a comeback. Jerry Schemmel is one of those people. A veteran broadcaster known for his voice behind Rockies baseball, Schemmel recently faced his second layoff in six years from KOA Radio, part of iHeartMedia’s widespread cuts. But here’s where it gets inspiring: instead of letting this define him, Schemmel has channeled his energy into a new calling—one that’s deeply personal and profoundly impactful.
In October, Schemmel received a brief, impersonal phone call informing him of his job loss. ‘It still hurt,’ he admitted, ‘like they don’t want me anymore.’ Despite the sting, the 66-year-old, who began calling Rockies games in 2010 after years with the Nuggets, found resilience in his faith and family. ‘I could see it coming,’ he said, ‘but the way it happened—no meeting, no thanks—that was tough.’
And this is the part most people miss: Schemmel’s story isn’t just about losing a job; it’s about finding purpose in unexpected places. Today, he serves as an ambassador and chief fundraiser for Best Day Ministries in Longmont, a nonprofit empowering individuals with special needs through faith, joy, and purpose. The organization, founded by Joe and Marla Truitt, whose son Seth has Down syndrome, operates an online marketplace for special-needs adults to sell their crafts, a coffee shop employing 16 individuals with disabilities, and monthly inclusive church services.
But here’s where it gets personal: Schemmel’s 4-year-old grandson, Henry, also has Down syndrome. ‘I had never done anything with the special-needs community before Henry,’ he shared. ‘It’s been incredibly rewarding.’ Initially shocked by Henry’s diagnosis, Schemmel soon discovered a world of unconditional love and joy. ‘Those with Down syndrome don’t judge, they don’t complain,’ he reflected. ‘All they want to do is love on people.’
Schemmel’s journey of service began decades ago after surviving the 1989 crash of United Airlines Flight 232, where he rescued an 11-month-old baby from the wreckage. ‘That experience allowed me to find life’s real meaning,’ he wrote in his book, ‘Chosen to Live.’ In 2018, he raised nearly $300,000 for Paws for Purple Hearts by cycling 468 miles across Colorado, honoring his late father, a WWII medic.
While Schemmel admits he’ll miss the booth—‘painting a picture for people who aren’t at the game’—he’s far from slowing down. He’s selling his Scottsdale condo, bought a home in Frederick, and is eyeing the Race Across the West, an 860-mile cycling challenge. ‘I’m semi-retired, but busier than ever,’ he said with a laugh. ‘I’m pretty blessed.’
Controversial question for you: In a world that often values productivity over purpose, is Schemmel’s shift from broadcasting to advocacy a radical choice—or the ultimate form of success? Share your thoughts below. His story challenges us to redefine what it means to live a meaningful life, and it’s a conversation worth having.
