Who could’ve known that some lemons, a home-made stand, and a jar full of money could have formed the foundation of a long-lasting legacy? It’s been 25 years since Alex Scott, the founder of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), held her first lemonade stand, and, ever since, supporters from across the country have found the courage to join the fight by hosting their very own front yard lemonade stands to help fund childhood cancer research. 

Whether you’re thinking about joining the movement or have already signed up to host your stand during Lemonade Days, everyone has the power to make a difference. That’s why we gathered the advice of four of our dedicated lemonade stand hosts to give you tips and tricks on how to squeeze the most of your lemonade stand. 

1.    Ask for Donations (The Whaley Family)
“Ask for donations instead of setting a specific price. We usually include other items to complement the lemonade too: can koozies, cookies, and other items,” recommended Sarah Whaley. 

When Sarah’s son, Connor, was diagnosed with cancer, a lemonade stand for ALSF felt like the perfect opportunity to honor all kids fighting cancer. Today, Connor is celebrating two years cancer-free and hosting a lemonade stand gives their family a way to stand with all the heroes who are still fighting. 

Asking for donations instead of setting a price is a great way to give people the opportunity to show their support in any way they feel comfortable. And offering additional incentive items will get people excited to take their stand.

2.    Every Little Bit Helps (Samantha Schaller and JB Breit)
“We would tell other people hosting a lemonade stand for ALSF that no matter how big or small the contribution is, remember that every little bit helps in the fight against childhood cancer,” said Samantha. 

When they first met in kindergarten, Samantha’s grandmother and JB’s little brother were both battling cancer. The two friends started hosting an annual lemonade stand in honor of their family members – who are now both cancer-free! Their fun fundraising tradition continues for those still fighting.

No donation is too small or too big to help make a difference. So whether you’re collecting change to bringing in big bills, know that your efforts matter.

3.    Teamwork makes the dreamwork! (S&T Bank)
“Gather a dedicated group of employees to serve on a Lemonade Days Committee. This team can help the entire company or group stay focused and organized to plan a successful week. Work to spread enthusiasm and encourage creativity and lean on your partners at ALSF to help guide your efforts. They are always available to help!” recommends the lemonade stand team at S&T Bank. 

S&T Bank is participating in Lemonade Days for the third year in a row as their way of putting people first. Inspired by Alex’s legacy, their employees bring so much enthusiasm to their fundraising efforts each year.

Having a designated group of people to lift people’s spirits or help set up can be a gamechanger for your lemonade stand.  Whether work colleagues, neighbors, or family, don’t forget – teamwork makes the dream work!

4.    Put the Fun in Fundraising! (Vetsikas Family)
“Alex said it best: ‘It's easy and it's fun!’ She's right. Hosting a lemonade stand for ALSF is so much fun and so easy to do! The Scott family and the incredible staff at ALSF are so incredibly thoughtful and supportive and have made it so easy to host a successful event. It's truly a turn-key experience,” said Dean Vetsikas.

Dean wanted his daughters, Sophie and Corrina, to know that their voices are powerful. After Sophie spent some time in the hospital with a rare blood disorder, their family felt inspired to advocate for more kids with tough diagnoses.

Now, they focus on putting the “fun” in “fundraising” with their lemonade stands.

With resources, stories, supplies and more, ALSF is here to help make your stand a success. Feeling inspired? Sign up to host your own lemonade stand or explore more tips and info on our website! And don’t forget the lemonade stand gear! Get your lemon fit in Alex’s Shop.