Before tasting our first scoops of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, we already knew these cold, creamy treats were sure to warm our souls. While their unique flavors and fresh ingredients never disappoint, it’s the people working at Howdy that guarantee happiness in every cone.

Ten years ago, Tom Landis and his wife Margaret were called to create a never-ending cycle of happiness when they launched Howdy Homemade Ice Cream. Tom had tinkered with ice cream techniques and tools until his taste tests proved that the treats were ready. Then he opened the doors of the first Howdy store, located in North Dallas, and began welcoming customers with a big Texas “Howdy.”

For Tom, the motivation behind Howdy was never about the ice cream. It was, is, and always will be about the people. Howdy provides employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Tom knew that there were very few places where someone with special needs could go to work, so he created an entire organization where individuals with IDD are the center of the entire business.

Take Brandt, aka “Bossman Brandt”, for example. Brandt brings his energy and enthusiasm to every guest he meets, while also being fully responsible for all store operations. Many organizations would never give a chance to someone like Brandt, but Howdy provides dignified and challenging work to so many people in his situation.

One visit to Howdy, and you’ll be coming back for more. Their friendly “Howdy” greeting serves as the cone to hold scoops of delicious ice cream (like Dr. Pepper Chocolate Chip), and the most refreshing customer service you’ll ever experience.

Howdy is the epitome of stakeholder capitalism—a truly winning recipe for all, including employees, clients, and the broader community. Less than two weeks ago, there was an overnight break-in at the original Howdy story in Dallas. The thieves broke through the front glass and left with the safe. While heartbreaking, it was beautiful to see neighbors and strangers come together in response.

Customers showed up, paying $100 extra for their afternoon treat. Unsolicited donations arrived. In one case, the owners of Century Glass and Mirror contacted Tom after seeing the news story with a simple offer: “We love what you are doing, and we want to replace your storefront glass free of charge.”

There is so much goodness in this world, and Howdy Homemade is a reminder to us all to seek it, promote, and support it. I cannot think of Tom, Margaret, Brandt, and the team at Howdy without saying out loud, “Howdy, thank God it’s Monday.”

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