Local business works to support those with Down syndrome

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. – Dennis Diehl is a man who, 20 years ago, made it his mission to uplift those with Down syndrome.

He and his wife, Sharon Lee Diehl, founded the Boardwalk Buddy walk, an annual walk that helps raise awareness on Down syndrome, and pays homage to his brother-in-law David, who passed away in 2016.

“That first year, we had about 300 walkers and only 13 kids with down syndrome. It’s since grown to 1500 walkers and up to 85 Down syndrome participants,” Diehl said.

The duo’s efforts to level the playing field didn’t stop at the foundation. Sharon Lee Diehl said one of her brother’s favorite treats was ice cream, and what better way to honor that love than by opening a shop in his name, called Uncle David’s Ice Cream.

“My husband had this vision of opening this place of employment for individuals with Down syndrome, and it’s been in his mind for many years, and this year it finally came into fruition,” Diehl said.

With six employees working at the shop, Sharon Lee Diehl said the operation is bigger than just serving up scoops of sweet treats, it’s about giving people a sense of independence.

“The individuals with Down syndrome, they get paid, and it was just to bring acceptation and inclusion of them to the communities around,” Diehl said.