The outstanding Happy Joe’s Pizza and Ice Cream parlor is an upper Midwestern restaurant chain with over 50 restaurants. The American Pizza Parlor was founded in 1972 by Happy Joe Whitty. Whitty’s goal was to create a restaurant where children and their families could enjoy a good pizza, some ice cream, and a fun time. Whitty made sure that special needs families always felt welcome in his restaurant.

 

It’s Party Time Once Again

Witty not only started a restaurant chain in 1972, but he began a holiday tradition. In 1972, Happy Joe’s started throwing holiday parties for children with special needs. The parties continued to be held annually until 2020 and 2021. 

 

The parties were canceled because of the pandemic. However, this year they are making a comeback at Happy Joe´s.

 

An Important Time To Give Back

Chief Happiness Officer Tom Sacco (and Happy Joe’s CEO) wants every special needs child near a Happy Joe’s to experience a holiday party just for them. They throw parties with Happy Joe’s foundation called Happy Joe’s Kids Foundation. Does Tom Sacco believe that this time of year is for giving back, and there is no better way to give back than to help special needs children feel they are part of a community. Sacco says he is often told that the holiday parties are often the highlight of the holiday season for the children.