🍿 About Us

Who We Are

Gerdy’s Gourmet Popcorn isn’t just about popcorn — it’s about PURPOSE. Founded in Waukegan, Illinois, Gerdy’s was created with a mission to serve our community while uplifting and empowering young people.

The name GERDY’S stands for Growth, Empowerment, Resilience, Developing Youth for Success. It’s not a person, but a promise — a commitment to building up the next generation from the inside out.

What We Do

We create a variety of handcrafted gourmet popcorn in flavors some never heard before — from Oreo Cookie, to Red Velvet, these unique mixes brings joy to every bite. But behind every bag is a bigger vision: using popcorn as a vehicle to teach, train, and inspire youth.

For many of our young team members, Gerdy’s is their very first job. Here, they learn the fundamentals of customer service, communication, time management, teamwork, and leadership. They gain not just a paycheck, but also confidence, life skills, and a foundation for future success.

Our Impact

At Gerdy’s, we believe in second chances and fresh starts. Our popcorn shop is more than a business — it’s a safe space, a learning space, and a launching pad for dreams. Every purchase supports youth employment, mentorship, and community growth.

Our Motto

“Popcorn with a Purpose.”

When you choose Gerdy’s, you’re not just enjoying gourmet popcorn — you’re investing in the future of our youth and the strength of our community.