More than 25 years ago, IAAPA became a proud partner with Give Kids The World Village, the nonprofit organization in Central Florida that provides cost-free wish vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families. The Village is a stunning, storybook resort, supported by generous organizations from around the world—including members of the global attractions industry.
Earlier this month, IAAPA was honored to attend the grand opening Henri’s Starlite Scoops, the Village’s new venue that serves ice cream day and night—and most notably—for breakfast.
Named for the Village’s beloved founder, Henri Landwirth, the custom-built building came together through the shared hearts and commitment of Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Creative, Kern Studios and many additional partners who donated their time, talent, and energy to make the dream of an ice cream venue that celebrates Henri’s story, and the futures of all the children who will visit, come true.
The unique space-themed building features custom-built chests and lower counters so that all children, including those in wheelchairs, can see and choose their favorite flavors. The open floorplan features unique murals of colorful stars and planets and the Village’s mascot, Mayor Clayton in his own space suit.
For those wondering about the “out of this world” theme—it celebrates Henri’s early career when he was general manager of the Starlite Motel in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Henri’s hotel became the “home away from home” of NASA’s first astronauts as they trained for their flights along Florida’s Space Coast at the beginning of the American space program. The era also marked the beginning of Henri’s career in hospitality and his lifelong friendships with many of the pioneering astronauts. Historic photos and NASA memorabilia—including a space suit, and a Give Kids The World flag John Glenn took with him on a Space Shuttle mission—decorate the walls and inspire all who enter.
It is impossible to visit the Village without feeling a sense of wonder and gratitude for what Henri created. The opening of Henri’s Starlite Scoops is the next part in Give Kids The World’s storied tradition of providing fun, hope, and inspiration to families who need it most. You could say the sparkling new facility is the cherry on top of the perfect sundae.
