Working with the disabled can be a rewarding job, and one of the reasons why many OPTIONS have chosen to be a part of this lifestyle. For the participants of the program though, it can feel like it’s all part of the daily routine, which is why when the unexpected arrives at the door, it can seem like a holiday to them. This was the environment down at the local OPTIONS campus today as local ice cream vendor Captain Tasty Treats showed up with his ice cream truck full of free goodies for the participants and workers.
Throughout the year local businesses across the Tangipahoa Parish area choose an area in which to donate their time and goods in an effort
to bring more togetherness into the region, and your local ice cream vendor isn’t one to shy away from this charity. The owner of the truck knows the appeal of his product, and choosing this venue was the right choice to make a positive impact on the community. As the drizzle came down, the participants came out in a long and orderly line to take their turn at the window.
For those dealing with disabilities in their every day life, from autism to Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy and more, the OPTIONS program has given them the means to be a part of the community in a more impactful way. With the means to work, play and gather with their local friends and community members, this has been a launching pad that has helped those who would otherwise struggle, to get a helping hand in being regular members of society; this is a situation that many of us who don’t have to face those challenges can take for granted.
The employees who work in the program are selfless individuals who put the entirety of their time and effort into bringing more positivity to the lives of those who may struggle to find it, and assist them with developing skills that are necessary to integrate in the workplace. The combination of efforts across the city, including donations, job placements, and more have had a major impact in bringing these benefits to those who would otherwise not enjoy them. And taking the time to reward not only those working to this end, but also the participants who put their all into improvement is a great thing.
We commemorate Captain Tasty Treats for his time, effort and financial donation through his products to this noble cause, and for bringing a little bit of sunshine to an otherwise rainy and dull day. Throughout his time there the line was long, but the smiles never left the faces of those awaiting their own treat. You could surely tell that the participants were all happy, excited, and anxious. To bring that feeling to a large group of people through only your time and goodwill is a rewarding feeling for everyone, and an example to follow in the Tangipahoa Parish area.