WIMBERLEY — Mickey Perkins and Roger Smith wanted to create a brighter future for their sons. They turned a dream into reality with Schoolyard Dogs, a hot dog food truck.
It all began in 2021 when Perkins envisioned transforming a special education school bus into a food truck. The idea sparked excitement in her family, especially for their two sons, Rufus and Jasper, both on the autism spectrum. After discussing the dream with her husband, they found a bus for sale in Bastrop, setting off a journey of transformation.
Schoolyard Dogs opened on July 4, 2024. They decided to run it as a nonprofit to train and employ adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the Wimberley area. This mission provides essential work opportunities for individuals who often struggle to find jobs.
In May 2025, with assistance from Wimberley ISD, they began using a kitchen at the old Scudder Primary School. They invested over $20,000 upgrading the kitchen, which now serves food not just for the truck but also for baked goods.
As Perkins shared, “The bus isn’t a big money maker; we’re focused on community. We have one cook, a manager, and always someone for customer service.” They expanded their offerings to include baked goods, which are delivered to local schools. Now, teachers can order online, and the menu is accessible for the public as well.
Items include sourdough bread, pretzels, and seasonal pies, all made from scratch. Starting next year, they’ll add take-and-bake meals, aiming to provide more options for busy families. “We want our food to feel homemade,” Perkins noted.
Creating jobs for adults with unique needs is crucial, especially for families facing similar challenges. Perkins understands that finding meaningful work for adult children with disabilities is often tough. Her sons are at a transitional stage in life, and she sees many families in the community facing similar hurdles.
Currently, Schoolyard Dogs employs ten people. Perkins hopes to develop a community center offering skill-building programs and social interactions. This would give parents peace of mind knowing their children are learning and engaged.
The food truck operates behind Art on 12, located at 13811 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. To learn more about their mission and offerings, you can visit their website Schoolyard Dogs.
This initiative isn’t just about hot dogs; it’s about creating a supportive community where everyone has a place. As community-minded projects like this take root, they help break down barriers in employment for individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive society.
