Shepherd's first visit to Allendale took place in June at the end of the school term. The entire staff of Allendale County Schools held its annual End of Year Breakfast and Shepherd gave the keynote address. The story of the athlete turned life coach's inspired and resonated with many teachers and staff. Shepherd recounted some of the darkest times in his life growing up one of 15 children and fatherless, but not without a giving a message of hope.
"We're not born losers, we're born choosers"
The message is clear and simple. Shepherd wanted students to know their current circumstances don't have to determine their futures.