#United States #Dallas #Howdy Homemade #Undivided Life #Tom Landis

Partnership for Inclusion and Growth

In a landmark move for social entrepreneurship, Undivided Life has officially become a co-owner of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, joining founders Tom and Margaret Landis in pushing the beloved ice cream brand to new national heights. The collaboration aims not just to expand the reach of Howdy Homemade but to also solidify its commitment to providing meaningful employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

Howdy Homemade, founded in 2015 in Dallas, has quickly established itself as a beacon of joy and inclusion. The ice cream shop, renowned for its super-premium flavors and heartfelt mission, currently employs over 100 individuals with special needs. This impactful business has garnered national recognition, including the prestigious 2025 National Down Syndrome Congress Employer of the Year Award and features on major media outlets like The TODAY Show and ABC's World News Tonight. Furthermore, its collaboration with Keurig Dr Pepper Group has allowed them to create reinvented flavors like the Dr Pepper Chocolate Chip, showcasing Howdy Homemade's innovative spirit.

With Undivided Life taking a significant minority stake in the company, both parties are dedicated to accelerating growth initiatives. This includes the opening of new company-owned stores and expanding Howdy's catering services. Founders Tom and Margaret Landis will maintain majority control, continuing to guide the mission and vision behind Howdy Homemade. Tom expresses his enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, “We couldn't imagine a better-aligned partner than Undivided Life. Their leadership, experience, and belief in our mission will help us reach more communities and incredible team members who deserve meaningful work and a chance to shine.”

The ambitious growth strategy targets the opening of over 60 new company-owned locations by the year 2030, translating into more than 1,000 jobs specifically for adults with special needs. This initiative represents one of the most significant movements toward inclusion-driven employment across the country.

Jeff Schiefelbein, Co-Founder of Undivided Life, underscores the essence of this partnership: “This partnership reflects everything we stand for. We believe in building businesses that do good and do well, and Howdy Homemade embodies that spirit in every scoop. Together, we are scaling a mission that changes the way the world sees people with IDDs.” The partnership not only enhances business prospects but also champions a broader societal impact by promoting the values of dignity and inclusion in the workplace.

As Howdy Homemade charts its course for future success, the combination of its award-winning ice cream and dedicated mission promises to redefine the employment landscape for adults with disabilities. Through this partnership, Undivided Life and Howdy Homemade aim to serve up joy, inclusivity, and delicious ice cream to communities nationwide.

In summary, the collaboration between Undivided Life and Howdy Homemade Ice Cream sets a precedent for social responsibility in business. As they embark on this exciting journey together, the future looks bright for nurturing talent, creating jobs, and spreading happiness one scoop at a time.