The ice cream truck that created many fond post-game memories for Pelham citizens is returning. After sporting events and school, Nancy’s ice cream truck always sat waiting, ready to dole out treats and sweets. Nancy Romm retired due to illness after forty years in business, but her truck will be back in operation under a Pelham Together program that will allow teens to gain business experience.

Pelham Chamber of Commerce President Clayton Bushong approached Harry Brandler with the idea of buying the truck from Nancy’s business partner and making it a teen-run operation. Brandler became a co-sponsor of the effort. Together, they talked to Laura Caruso, executive director of Pelham Together, about launching the initiative in keeping with the Pelham Together mission to elevate youth through opportunities.

“A youth-run business is a perfect way to expose young people to life and work skills, form connections with adults and their community and give them opportunities for service and paid work,” said Caruso. “Pelham Together believes in providing young people with opportunities for leadership and independence in ways that celebrate their talents. If we can do that and contribute to keeping a Pelham tradition alive at the same time, then we have a win-win situation.” 

The new effort, dubbed Project Nancy, will allow for young entrepreneurs in Pelham to gain work and business experience firsthand while also renewing memories of a childhood favorite for many Pelham citizens. 

The truck will make its first appearance at Pelham’s Little League Parade on April 18. It will be available starting in the spring for sports games, parties and events on weekends during the spring, summer and fall.