Patriotic Ice Cream: A Scoop of Civic Pride

In a delightful fusion of frozen treats and national pride, an independent ice cream shop in Georgia has spearheaded a nationwide project that encourages children to recite the Pledge of Allegiance in exchange for a free scoop of ice cream. This patriotic initiative, known as the "I Pledge Project," has been spreading across the country, inspiring a new generation to embrace their civic duty while indulging in a beloved summertime delight.

Scooping Up Patriotism, One Cone at a Time

Rooted in Patriotism

The "I Pledge Project" was born at Leopold's Ice Cream in Savannah, Georgia, a company that has been deeply rooted in patriotism since its inception. Stratton Leopold, the owner of Leopold's Ice Cream, shared that his family's legacy of military service, with his father serving in World War I and his siblings and cousins serving in World War II, has instilled a profound sense of patriotism within the business.This rich history of service and sacrifice has been woven into the fabric of Leopold's Ice Cream, setting the stage for the creation of the "I Pledge Project." The idea for this initiative was sparked by a Leopold's Ice Cream customer and teacher, Jan Macchi, who suggested that children who recite the Pledge of Allegiance on the Fourth of July should receive a free ice cream scoop.

Expanding the Patriotic Reach

Inspired by Macchi's idea, Stratton's wife, Mary Leopold, decided to expand the project's scope beyond the Fourth of July, recognizing the opportunity to "dedicate more time and make it much more about the kids than the Fourth of July specifically." With July being designated as "National Ice Cream Month," the Leopolds saw a natural synergy between ice cream and patriotism, leading to the seamless integration of the two elements in the "I Pledge Project."The Leopolds' commitment to the project's growth has been unwavering. After receiving an award for best promotion from the National Ice Cream Retailers Association, Stratton Leopold became determined to share the "I Pledge Project" with ice cream shops across the country. To facilitate this expansion, the Leopolds created a dedicated website, complete with promotional materials and a list of participating businesses, making it easier for independent ice cream shops to join the initiative.

Spreading the Patriotic Spirit

The "I Pledge Project" has since gained traction, with participating ice cream shops now located in 42 states. Mary Leopold expressed her dream of having the project represented in all 50 states, a goal that is within reach as the initiative continues to gain momentum.The Leopolds' efforts have not gone unnoticed. The community has embraced the "I Pledge Project," with both children and their families appreciating the opportunity to engage in civic education while enjoying a delightful frozen treat. Mary Leopold emphasized the simplicity of the project, noting that all it requires is "a little bit of ice cream" to reward the patriotic spirit of the participating children.The "I Pledge Project" website serves as a hub for the initiative, providing clear instructions for children and their families on how to participate. The website encourages families to visit their local participating ice cream or treat shops, where they can recite the Pledge of Allegiance from memory and receive a free scoop of ice cream in return.Through this innovative and patriotic initiative, Leopold's Ice Cream has not only brought joy to children but also fostered a sense of civic pride and engagement. As the "I Pledge Project" continues to expand, it stands as a testament to the power of community, the enduring spirit of patriotism, and the unifying force of a shared love for ice cream.