
By: Trish Adkins
Last year, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) was able to fund nearly 300 groundbreaking research grants, support over 300 families traveling to treatment, and care for 3,000 siblings standing on the sidelines while their brother or sister battled cancer. None of it would be possible without the incredible community of donors, volunteers, and supporters who showed up — hosting events, tracking miles, pouring lemonade, and giving generously in big and small ways.
As we look ahead to 2026, our resolve has never been stronger. Each year, more than 400,000 children around the world are affected by cancer. Behind every diagnosis is a child enduring difficult treatments, parents navigating impossible decisions, siblings waiting and worrying, and researchers racing against time to find better answers.
Together, we can make a difference for these families in 2026. Looking for ways to get involved? Here are 12 meaningful ways to support kids with cancer — one for every month of the year.
January: Start the Year Inspired by Alex Scott
Kick off the year with hope and purpose! On January 18, Alex Scott would have turned 30 years old — read an inspiring message from her mom Liz, about Alex’s legacy and the incredible difference Alex made and continues to make.
February: Join the One Cup at a Time Club
Make your impact monthly by joining ALSF’s One Cup at a Time Club. Automatic monthly giving helps sustain research and family support year-round — and a monthly gift of any amount adds up to real progress over time. Plus, members enjoy exclusive perks and the knowledge that they’re making a difference every single month.
March: Turn Your Birthday (or Milestone) Into a Fundraiser
Celebrate your birthday, anniversary, or personal milestone by asking friends and family to donate in your honor. It’s a simple, powerful way to turn a meaningful moment into hope for kids fighting cancer.
Bonus: West Coast supporters (and anyone looking for a mini-break), snag tickets to The Great Chefs Table: Seattle, an extraordinary culinary experience on March 11 benefiting ALSF and featuring James Beard Award-winning chef John Sundstrom.
April: Double Your Impact with Matching Gifts
Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double — or even triple — your donation. Take a few minutes to check if your workplace participates and make your support go even further for kids with cancer.
May: Brain Tumor Awareness Month
Brain tumors are the deadliest form of childhood cancer. Each year approximately 5,000 children are diagnosed with one of the many types of brain tumors. Each May, the world goes gray to raise awareness of the need for more research and cures for brain tumors. Learn more about the work ALSF does to cure brain tumors, as well as all types of childhood cancer here.
June: Lemonade Days!
Alex’s dream began with a lemonade stand — and it continues every June. Host a stand in your front yard, workplace, school, or community to raise funds and awareness during Lemonade Days, a month dedicated to grassroots action and big-hearted generosity. During this month in the Philadelphia-area you can also swing by Alex’s “Original” Lemonade Stand at her former elementary school and check out the Great Chefs Event Philadelphia!
July: Turn Your Athletic Accomplishments into Lifesaving Research Dollars
July is the perfect time for fall athletes to become Champions for Kids with Cancer! Athletes of all ages can turn goals, points, saves, and miles into dollars for kids with cancer. Whether you’re part of a team or competing solo, becoming a Champion means using your passion for sports to fuel progress toward cures.
August: Shop with Purpose (and get ready for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month)
Wear your awareness! Support kids with cancer by shopping ALSF merchandise, participating in giveback campaigns, or shopping from our selection of partner products.
September: Log Your Miles for The Million Mile
During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, join thousands of supporters nationwide for The Million Mile. Walk, run, bike, swim, or roll your way toward better treatments and cures — from anywhere, at your own pace.
October: L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade
This West Coast favorite brings together renowned chefs and mixologists for a delicious, family-friendly afternoon. With one-of-a-kind tastings and meaningful connections, L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade continues to raise critical funds for childhood cancer research.
November: Giving Tuesday
As you make your Thanksgiving and holiday plans, make sure to mark your calendar for Giving Tuesday! Held each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, this global day of giving is a great time to help kids with cancer. Follow ALSF on social to get all the inspiration and ways to give!
December: End Your Year by Giving Back
Close out the year with purpose and get your final 2026 donations in before the next tax year! Get inspired with stories of kids cured by research and read more about how you can make your end of year donations, here.