With the help of his education assistant, a boy with Down Syndrome researched the history of his favorite food, the burrito. Even though the 11-year-old is shy, Joe Redmond stood up in front of the whole school to deliver his heartfelt 8 minute speech on the topic (watch below).
His family sent Taco Bell a YouTube video of Joe reciting the speech at home. After several months, the company’s Canada officials came up with an idea to support Joe and his love for burritos.
And, every day, his mind is set on enjoying burritos, the southwestern Mexican-American food his mom Rosie taught him how to make.
In early September the Redmond family, who live in Markham, Ontario learned that Taco Bell wanted to host Joe’s family and friends at one of their nearby restaurants for his own personal burrito party.
On Sept. 28, 24 of his classmates from St. Matthew Catholic Elementary School joined Joe for an exclusive party. It was the first party ever attended by the young boy, but that wasn’t the end of Taco Bell’s kindness.
Joe’s education assistant Louise Sartor came up with the idea of hosting an event last year to raise money for two Canadian Down Syndrome charities. Joe and some of the school’s staff sold “tons of homemade burritos and some baked goods. They called it a “Burritopalooza” and raised $1500.
So, on the day of his Taco Bell party, Joe was presented with a matching $1,500 check. A local newspaper featured the story and a photo of the party-goers from Taco Bell.
“The reaction has been fantastic,” Steve told the Good News Network. “He was quite the celebrity at school this week and he’s already talking about what he can do to raise more money.”
“Joe has the power to touch people and make them change their perceptions of what’s possible,” added Steve. “The story can teach parents who are just starting out on the same journey that although there are challenges with raising a special needs child, there are also many rewards to be had.”
(WATCH the video below, or READ more, w/ photo, via YorkRegion.com)
I’m 53-years-old and in my day kids like Joe would be picked on and bullied because of his condition. It’s really nice to see that times are changing and while bullies still exist, they are now in the minority of most student bodies. Well done Joe! It’s great to see that he hasn’t let Down’s Syndrome get in his way!