The life enrichment team at Presbyterian Village North (PVN) hosted an ice cream social with Howdy Homemade on March 16 from 2 – 4 p.m.
The event was one of the first organized socials for the independent living residents since receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations.
“I think [the residents] are excited because this is the first group we’ve brought from outside of campus for the residents to enjoy in a year,” said Letty Valdez, life enrichment manager. “Also, we’re excited to support Howdy Homemade’s mission and benefit them as well.”
The ‘Howdy Mission’ is to hire, train, and employ people with Down syndrome and autism. The company hopes to change the way the world looks at those with special needs by providing the opportunity to interact with them over a scoop (or two) of ice cream.
“I took a gap year from college to work at Howdy and I’m amazed by what I’ve learned,” said Jax, a Howdy Homemade employee. “People have low expectations for individuals with special needs, but they are just as capable. They can serve customers and take their orders, too.”
Another employee, Palmer, expressed how much fun working at Howdy is to him while wearing an Olaf costume that brought the seniors of PVN joy.
“This is the first time I got ice cream from this type of service,” an independent living resident told Palmer.
About 100 residents and many teammates participated in the social and are looking forward to more events and opportunities to socialize soon.
For more information about the Howdy Homemade mission, visit howdyhomemade.com. For more information about Presbyterian Village North, visit presvillagenorth.org or follow us on Instagram or Facebook.