Dad of Two Kids with Down Syndrome Buys Ice Cream Truck So They Can Have a Job

One father from Ohio wanted to help his children with Down Syndrome find purpose, so he did something heartwarming. Knowing his kids might struggle to find jobs, he devised a unique employment plan for them.

Joel Wegener adores his son and daughter. Both were born with Down Syndrome, but they refused to prevent it from holding them back.

With a supportive dad like Joel, the sky was the limit, and they went on many adventures together. One of the family’s recent endeavors made the headlines and encouraged others in similar situations.

The Dad’s Sweet Plan

Joel’s sweet idea included the purchase of an old ice cream truck in April 2021. The retired teacher spent just over $6,000 on the vehicle, and it was ready for business after a few renovations.

He employed his kids and taught them various social and business skills. Joel’s wife, Freida Wegener, suggested the clever name Special Neat Treats as a play on the words “special needs,” and it was an instant success in their local neighborhoods,

The family’s journey has been incredible, and Joel revealed that they had sold more than 10,000 treats in the Cincinnati area, with plans to expand their business in the future.

The Public’s Unbelievable Support

Josh and Mary Kate were the best workers, always serving ice creams with a smile. They also showed other special needs families that nothing is impossible, serving as a positive inspiration.

Joel knew the ice cream truck would make his kids happy, but he never foresaw how people would respond. The public cheered them on and supported their small business.

It Was More than Selling Treats

The dad realized he might always have to be there for Josh and Mary Kate, but the ice cream truck gave them a sense of independence and something to pour their energy into. He added: “It’s much more than selling ice cream.”

On every hot day, the community of Loveland comes out in numbers to buy the family’s delicious popsicles. Mary Kate couldn’t hide her joy because the job was a dream come true for her. She always wanted to work with her dad, and now she could do so daily. Joel said:

“We were worried about what [Mary would] be able to do once she reached [22], but the ice cream truck has really eased our concerns.”

Their Business Was Booming

The family’s journey has been incredible, and Joel revealed that they had sold more than 10,000 treats in the Cincinnati area, with plans to expand their business in the future.

Through the inventive and creative business idea, Josh and Mary Kate have learned how to manage money and interact with people while having a blast. Josh explained why he loved the job so much:

“Because [the customers] love ice cream, and they scream for ice cream when asking for ice cream.”

The Online Response

The family hopes to raise awareness for the special needs community and believes businesses should hire more people with different abilities because they can do so much.

Josh and Mary Kate’s beautiful story didn’t go unnoticed. Many people were inspired by their endeavors and applauded the loving dad who went the extra mile for his kids:

“My husband and I want to thank you for all you do!! It brings tears to his eyes each and every time. May The Lord continue to bless you in all your endeavors!”

– (Michelle Liga) September 16, 2022

“Neat Treats, you know I love you all. Frieda, you and your hubby are the best!!! I wish Charleston would do that for our special needs children.”

– (Cynthia McGarett) July 26, 2022

“This is an amazing adventure and brings such joy to all.”

– (JoElla Miller-Zimmerman) December 24, 2021

“I just watched the Today show and looked you all up! Congrats on a job well done!”

– (Candace W. Monaghan) December 24, 2021

“You have been an inspiration since the day I met you in Jr High. You have the gift!!”

– (Angi Ivy) October 21, 2021

Despite their health conditions, these two precious children have had the adventure of a lifetime, thanks to their dad. Bravo to Joel! We wish their blossoming business and family all the best as they continue to spread joy wherever they go.

Click here for an uplifting story about a dad finding new hope and purpose in life. He lost his son and thought he would never find happiness again until his daughter with Down Syndrome proved him wrong.