Clark, NJ — In a notable shift for It’s Delicious Ice Cream, a family-owned business in Clark, the shop recently welcomed its first intern with a disability. This change came about after John Samsel, a representative of the ice cream shop, connected with Hudson Community Enterprises (HCE) and learned about their internship program designed for students with disabilities.
Until March 2024, It’s Delicious Ice Cream had not employed individuals with disabilities. However, Samsel’s meeting with HCE introduced him to the opportunity of hosting an intern, and soon after, Zi’Nayiah “Zi” Warren began her internship at the shop.
Samsel expressed enthusiasm about the new initiative, stating, “I was really excited to have this opportunity for an internship with a deaf person. Although I wasn’t sure how it would work initially, I firmly believe that everyone deserves a chance, and we wanted to give that chance to her.”
Zi’s internship, which commenced this spring, was supported by a job coach and an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. To facilitate communication with hearing customers, the ice cream shop implemented a system where orders were written on a whiteboard. Zi praised the supportive environment at It’s Delicious, saying, “The people here at work are incredibly supportive and friendly. They are really good at communicating with me, and I’ve shown them some sign language, like the sign for ‘help’ if needed.”
The impact of Zi’s internship extended beyond her role at the shop. Inspired by her presence, It’s Delicious hosted an Ice Cream Social for the Deaf community over Memorial Day weekend. Samsel described the event as a great success, adding, “It was fabulous to see people come from all over to support Zi. The community, job coaches, and interpreters came together to make it a memorable occasion.”
HCE’s internship program, supported by a grant from the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, offers valuable job opportunities to up to 60 students with disabilities each year. The program provides comprehensive training in essential workplace skills, including professionalism, teamwork, and adaptability. Interns work up to 150 hours per year at no cost to the host employer.
“HCE is actively seeking employers interested in hosting these students,” said Lauren Weishaar, HCE’s Assistant Vice President for Workforce Development. “This program not only offers crucial job opportunities across New Jersey but also allows partner employers to contribute to the development and growth of student interns.”
Weishaar emphasized the broader impact of the program, noting, “By participating, organizations can help shape a more inclusive and equitable future while positioning themselves as socially conscious leaders in their communities.”
