I was preparing to write a blog post about the best ice cream shops in Northern Virginia when I found this incredible business I had never heard of. I was so blown away by what they do I decided they needed their own post. Read on to learn why.
Featuring photos from a recent extended family mini session.
Sitting quietly in Falls Church, this unique business is dedicated to employing adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities, offering a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. Inspired by the founder’s nephew, Jake, who has cerebral palsy, the business was created as a place where adults with disabilities could find meaningful, year-round employment. It stands out not only for its inclusivity but also for its commitment to providing real jobs, like the one held by a young man with spastic quadriplegia, who manages the company’s social media. With a focus on community, fun, and family-friendly events, this business has become a beloved local gem, offering delicious handmade ice cream and a safe, inclusive space for all.
Can you tell us about your business and what makes it unique?
We are a business that is designed to be run by adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities.
What inspired you to start your business, and is there a fun backstory behind the name?
It is named after my nephew, Jake, who is now 32 and has cerebral palsy. He had a job for about 8 years prior to COVID hitting us and then was unemployed for 2 years. I decided to develop a business that he could work in with other people like him – and that would be able to accommodate changes to keep everyone employed.
What’s your favorite thing about being part of the Northern Virginia community?
I have lived here 70 years and love this area – but not so fond of the traffic. It’s diverse ethnically and there are some fabulous family run restaurants in the area as a result. The people in this area are generally inclusive and accepting of different lifestyles.
If your business had a theme song, what would it be and why?
It’s a Small World
What’s one thing most people don’t know about your business?
I have paid for all of the build out and equipment and the business started with no loans. Yet, it still just breaks even because we take a HUGE dip in income in the winter months. Adults with disabilities MUST be employed year round in order to have job coaches to assist them. There are NO job coaches for seasonal work.
Do you have a “most memorable moment” story from running your business?
I was asked to employ a young man who is a spastic quadriplegic in a wheelchair – the thought was that we would use him as a greeter for the shop since he had a job like that at Costco prior to Covid. His father commented in passing that he uses a voice activated computer at home to communicate. Well, let me tell you, we made this guy the chief of our social media. While it’s true that he can’t take a photo on his own (he has no use of his hands) – he can post things online and so he handles all of the photos we send him. He posts on Google, Yelp, Facebook and Instagram. He has a REAL job and not just a token job.
What’s your most popular product or service, and why do you think people love it so much?
Big selling flavors are butter pecan, pistachio, oreo and we have vegan flavors as well for people who are dairy intolerant or vegan. We make ALL of the ice cream on site. We also host “Create Your Own Ice Cream” flavor events. These are big hits and have given us some great ideas.
What are some ways your business makes life easier or more enjoyable for parents?
We are very accepting of the neurodiverse and differently abled community. All are welcome in our shop. We are geared towards families with kids.
Do you have any special events, classes, or offers that are particularly family-friendly?
We have Santa come out. For our anniversary in August we have a party with music, face painting and balloon twisting. We offer birthday parties in the shop starting one hour prior to opening. We also offer Create Your Own Ice Cream events and have had participants as young as 3.
How do you ensure a welcoming and safe environment for young children?
We don’t have or sell items that bring in smokers, drinkers, rowdy types. I have a signed trespass order with the local police in the event there is someone who has bad behavior. I lectured to the Mason District police department – all shifts – about our shop and the employment of adults with disabilities. They have been very responsive and fortunately, we have not needed them often.
What’s a fun fact or little-known detail about your business or team?
Only 2 people out of 27 who work there do NOT have a disability of any kind – including the managers!
