“When I see or hear about a problem, I try to be part of the solution.” When you interview a business owner like Donna Green, it does not take long for a perceptive reporter to realize she is what one would call, a Go Getter. “I kept hearing that we don’t have a lot of family-centered things in our community,” Donna said, especially regarding Uptown Collinsville and main street. Uptown Scoops is Donna’s Frozen Custard & Cookie Shop founded not only to provide outstanding desserts, but also to create a place for families to gather and enjoy time together on Main Street Collinsville.
Take the Family to Uptown Scoops on Main Street in Collinsville
Donna is quick to add that her comments about the family-friendly nature of businesses on Main are not meant as a criticism of existing establishments – simply as a statement of reality. There are a lot of uptown establishments that were not necessarily created for families with children in mind – Uptown Scoops was.
“My favorite vision I have when I look out our windows … I see dads out there playing football, soccer, or cornhole with their kids. They’ve got their phones put away.” She goes on, “That is exactly my dream for providing a family-centered place … talking, laughing and playing.”
In this reporter’s opinion, Donna has done well to accomplish her goal. Uptown Scoops is more than just a place for frozen treats – it embodies a spirit of quality, creativity, and heartfelt service.
Outstanding Ice Cream Shop in Collinsville
Uptown Scoops opened in September of 2022, and opening towards the end of the season gave Donna the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the business. From the moment you step onto the grounds of Uptown Scoops, you’re greeted by a warm and welcoming outdoor atmosphere. The lower-level patio seating area is covered, and the scent of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air. The ambiance is lively yet cozy, with music playing in the background, and there is a large grassy area making it the perfect spot for families to gather and enjoy some quality time together.
Donna’s passion for bringing people together and creating memorable experiences is evident in every scoop of custard and interaction with her customers. She believes in the power of community and strives to make Uptown Scoops a place where families can connect, relax, and have fun.
One of the standout features of Uptown Scoops is the expansive patio area, complete with a grassy play area for kids. Safety is a top priority, with planter boxes strategically placed to ensure children can play freely without darting into the street. The patio is equipped with various toys, including beloved little ice cream trucks that have become a hit among young visitors. If you’d prefer, you and your loved ones can enjoy your treats on the elevated deck of Uptown Scoops accessed by a spiral staircase leading to the top of the shop. Enjoy the breeze and take it a different view of main street while you fellowship around the table with your family and friends.
Delicious Homemade Cookie Bakery that Gives Back
While the custard is undoubtedly a highlight, Uptown Scoops offers a wide array of delectable treats. Donna’s homemade peanut butter cookies, sugar oatmeal cookies and chocolate chip cookies are a must-try, each with a story and a special recipe behind it. Every bite is a taste of love and tradition. “Cookies are my love,” Donna shares.
In addition to providing delicious treats, Uptown Scoops is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Donna organizes “Giving Wednesdays” twice a month, where local nonprofit organizations can promote their causes, and a portion of the sales is donated to them. “Giving Wednesdays are one of my favorite initiatives,” Donna explains. “We host local nonprofit organizations, allowing them to share their mission with our customers, and then we donate up to 15% of the sales from that day to support their cause. It’s a wonderful way to give back and engage with the community.”
The Bike Mike Cookie – a delicious homemade ice cream sandwich from Uptown Scoops in Collinsville. Proceeds from each sale go to the Collinsville Food pantry.
Honoring Big Mike & Supporting Collinsville Food Pantry
Another significant way Donna gives back is through the Big Mike Cookie, an item placed on the menu in honor of her late brother, Mike. “The Big Mike was a sandwich I made only for him. When he passed, I wanted to honor him and continue his legacy,” Donna explains. Mike was dedicated to serving people who needed help and was deeply involved with the local food pantry. “He spent a lifetime serving the underserved and was a huge part of our food pantry here in Collinsville,” Donna shares. A portion of the proceeds from every Big Mike sold goes directly to supporting the Collinsville food pantry, continuing Mike’s legacy of generosity and community service.
Donna Green of Uptown Scoops gives a portion of every sale of the Big Mike Sandwich to the Collinsville Food Pantry.
Frozen Custard, Frozen Treats, Cookies and Community
Looking ahead, Donna has exciting plans for Uptown Scoops. While she keeps some of her future plans close to her heart for the present time, one thing is certain: she will continue to innovate and create new family-centered activities that will delight her customers and strengthen community bonds.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a creamy custard, a scrumptious cookie, or simply a place to unwind and connect with loved ones, Uptown Scoops is the place to be. “Come for the custard, stay for the smiles,” Donna says with a warm smile, perfectly capturing the magic of a place that’s truly more than just custard.
From the relaxing patio to the delicious treats and the generous community initiatives, in every aspect of Uptown Scoops, Donna’s heart and soul are evident. Uptown Scoops is truly more than just a frozen custard shop in Collinsville.
Take the family and visit Uptown Scoops at 403 W Main Street in Collinsville. Order online via their website. See their photos or hear about specials on the Uptown Scoops Facebook page or Uptown Scoops Instagram.
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Jun. 26th, 2024