Visitors to Rehoboth Beach now have an extra reason to enjoy ice cream with the opening of Uncle David’s Ice Cream, a shop run by and benefitting individuals with Down syndrome. Located at 237 Rehoboth Ave., the shop will serve Hopkins Farm Creamery ice cream, with profits supporting the Boardwalk Buddy Walk Fund.
“It’s a great experience for individuals with Down syndrome and even better for the customers,” said Jim Watson, executive director of the Boardwalk Buddy Walk Fund.
The shop is named after the late David Samson, brother of Sharonlee Diehl. Nineteen years ago, Diehl began celebrating Samson’s annual summer trip to Rehoboth with a boardwalk stroll, which evolved into the Boardwalk Buddy Walk. This nonprofit event, scheduled for October 12 this year, raises funds for families and individuals with Down syndrome.
Uncle David’s Ice Cream, envisioned by the Diehls, is an extension of the Boardwalk Buddy Walk initiative. “We wanted to do something more tangible,” Watson explained. A mobile ice cream shop was launched last summer, and this season marks the opening of the brick-and-mortar store, located next to Just Comfort Shoes. Watson hopes to expand to more locations in the future.
“Not only is it very good ice cream, but it’s a different experience,” Watson said. “We’re creating awareness for individuals with Down syndrome, providing them with valued employment opportunities.”
