Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer

What is Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation?

Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott (1996-2004). At the age of 4, Alex announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. Since Alex held that first stand, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement, complete with thousands of volunteers across the country carrying on her legacy of hope. To date, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a registered 501(c)3 charity, has raised more than $30 million towards fulfilling Alex’s dream of finding a cure, funding over 125 research projects nationally.

What is Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s Mission?

• To raise money and awareness of childhood cancer causes, primarily research into new treatments and cures.
• To encourage and empower others, especially children, to raise money for childhood cancer by holding their own Alex's Lemonade Stands.

What is Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s Vision?

We share the vision of our founder and creator, Alexandra “Alex” Scott – a cure for all children with cancer.

How Does Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Raise Funds?

Our donations come from several sources, including: devoted volunteers who host fundraisers; partnerships with businesses and corporations; and individual donations made directly to our foundation.

Can anyone hold a lemonade stand?

Yes! We believe that everyone can make a difference, and we encourage everyone to get involved. Lemonade stands have been organized by a diverse group of devoted volunteers including large and small businesses, inner city school children, senior centers, pre-school aged children, a juvenile detention center, college students, and a group of homeless people.   You should register your stand through our website before you hold it so one of our "stand coaches" can help you in your efforts and send you materials to support your fundraising!

Can I hold another type of fundraiser to support Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation?

We encourage our supporters to hold any type of fundraiser, from car washes to walk-a-thons to collecting change!   For creative fundraising ideas, check out the Beyond Stands: Plan A Fundraising Event section of our website.  Again, we ask that you register your event through the Register An Event section of our site so we can keep in touch and help you in your efforts.

Does Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation support one hospital or one type of research?

Our mission is to find a cure for all childhood cancers. We believe in funding the most promising research into all types of childhood cancers, and have already funded projects at dozens of leading hospitals and institutions across the United States.  Researchers from all not-for-profit instititutions in North America are encouraged to apply. We are hoping to add to that list with future grants.

How Much Money Has Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Raised?

We have raised over $30 million for childhood cancer, and we have funded more than 125 research projects at over 50 institutions.  Additionally, we have important programs to help families struggling with childhood cancer, such as our Travel Fund and an annual Educational Symposium. 

How much of the money raised goes to programs and research versus administrative/fundraising costs?

We were founded on the belief that every dollar counts in the fight against pediatric cancer.  Our board of directors, staff, and advisors remain committed to keeping fundraising and administrative expenses as low as possible.  In 2008, our fundraising and administrative expenses combined were around 11%.

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