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Creating a place for community members and creating jobs, all while giving back, is what Keysville’s new ice cream shop is all about.

King Street Church held its grand opening of Sundae Service Thursday, July 22.

The ice cream shop, run entirely by youth members of the church, is located in the former Tri-County Ford Building.

According to King Street Church Pastor David Malcom, the church continues what former ice cream shop owner Kim Henry began.

“She ran the Polar Express here,” said Malcom. “When we purchased the building, we just thought this is such a great asset to the community that we needed to continue it.”

According to Malcom, the youth will decide what to do with the profits from the shop.

“They run this, Malcom said. “They will decide where to use the funds whether it be to fund mission trips, helping others in the community or donating to other causes.”

Malcom said the ice cream shop is not about making money for the church.

“This is all about bringing the community together, creating jobs, and teaching our youth business skills while serving the community,” he said.

Sundae Service is offering 16 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream from Richlands Dairy and Creamery and is open Monday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m.

Since the youth group runs the shop, Malcom said the hours might change to the evening hours once school begins.

Before its grand opening last week, the shop held a few soft openings, and Malcom said it was well-received by community members.

“It’s cool to work with your friends and help the community at the same time,” Hannah Hughes, a youth member who works in the shop, said.

“Plus, we get to spread the gospel while serving ice cream,” added Rebekah Malcom.

King Street Church is not stopping with the ice cream shop.

Beginning in September, the church will open a coffee shop adjacent to the ice cream shop.