If You're Happy...
Brooke and Em recently had a pop-up shop at the local soda stop, Fiiz in Kaysville, Utah. The owners, Joel and Sami , are one in a million. They graciously donated their space for our shop to display and sell our goods. Not only does Fiiz have wonderful treats and delicious soda concoctions but their employees are top notch. One in particular brought a huge smile to our faces and we fell in love with him over soda and Phantom of the Opera.
Meet Zack. He is a young man with Down Syndrome who works at Fiiz a couple of times a week through a program called Beautiful Ability. This program is all about supporting and raising awareness of the importance of inclusion in the workforce and in the surrounding communities.
Zack is an amazing singer. While he was doing his job he sang songs from Phantom of the Opera, one of his favorite musicals. He knows all the words to every song on the playlist and gave a spirited rendition of each one that came over the speaker. He greeted everyone who came through the doors and made them feel right at home. We were told about October 10th, one of the happiest days of Zack's life. He was working at Fiiz when a big group of High School kids came in. Being the social butterfly that he is, he started singing "If You're Happy and You Know It" at the top of his lungs. Every student that was in Fiiz at the time started singing and doing the actions along with him. If that doesn't bring a smile to your face, I don't know what will.
Zack has a wonderful friend who accompanies him to his job at Fiiz. Her name is Tina with Beautiful Ability. Tina is there to support Zack through his efforts at his job. She told us that Zack is not only a great Fiiz employee but he also is a performer. He, along with his mom, have put on an annual concert for the past three years that raises funds for charity. Zack makes sure that those with special needs are given the opportunity to showcase their talents in ways that give back to their community.
If you ever meet up with Zack at the Kaysville Fiiz you are in for a treat. He is one of the most genuine, loving people you will ever meet. Prepare yourself for an introduction, maybe a handshake or hug and if you are lucky enough, a fantastic song.
Love much,
Heather
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