LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. — A fresh and inspiring addition is coming soon to the Kansas City area with the grand opening of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, a franchise dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The celebration is set for May 16, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at 921 NE Woods Chapel Road in Lee’s Summit, inviting the community to enjoy delicious treats alongside a meaningful mission.
Howdy Homemade Ice Cream arrives in Kansas City thanks to TNC Community, a local nonprofit organization that offers tailored support services to individuals with IDD. CEO Kelly McGillis emphasized the organization’s commitment: “TNC Community is dedicated to helping people with disabilities prepare for and succeed in employment, enabling them to pursue meaningful careers and develop transferable job skills through the highly successful Howdy Homemade Ice Cream franchise.”
Employment opportunities for individuals with IDD remain limited nationwide. Studies show that people with disabilities are significantly less likely to be employed compared to those without disabilities, and those who work often face substantial wage disparities. Despite these challenges, many individuals with IDD are eager and able to work. Supported employment interventions have proven effective in helping these individuals secure and maintain jobs, yet national employment rates remain low.
TNC Community is actively addressing this gap through Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, which began hiring “Heroes” for the Lee’s Summit location in April. These employees receive customized training and ongoing support designed to develop job skills, build confidence, and unlock their full potential. The team is enthusiastic about opportunities to create and serve ice cream, engage with customers, cater community events, and host gatherings in the shop’s party room.
Howdy Homemade’s menu features a variety of signature flavors such as Dr. Pepper Chocolate Chip, Cookie Nom’ster, Chocolate as All Get Out, Strawberry Milkshake, and Birthday Cake—each crafted from homemade recipes.
Bringing Howdy Homemade to the Kansas City region aligns with TNC Community’s broader mission to “champion equity and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, inspiring lives of dignity, belonging, and joy.” With over 76 years of experience providing specialized services to people with IDD, the nonprofit is uniquely equipped to foster meaningful employment opportunities with equitable pay. “Howdy Homemade Ice Cream will help us create a more inclusive community that celebrates the gifts and contributions of people of all abilities,” McGillis added.
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