What began as a simple lemonade stand turned into millions of dollars raised to help end pediatric cancer and a newly inspired legacy of hope and cures for childhood cancer.
Entering its 19th year of annual fundraising, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research and family support programs, kicked off its annual fundraiser at Applebee’s.
Now through Sept. 17, Applebee’s restaurants will transform into “lemonade stands,” encouraging guests to join in the fight to end childhood cancer.
During the six-week fundraising campaign, restaurants will donate 25 cents from the sale of each lemonade, including fruit flavors, and 10 cents from every $5 Sunshine Sip drink, including their Long Island Iced Teas and Tipsy Sunsets. Guests can also support the cause by making donations in increments of $1 and $5. Customers will receive a voucher for $5 off their next in-store purchase of $25 or more for each $5 donation made in store.
“We are extremely proud of our partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and are excited to kick off our 19th year of fundraising for this incredible cause,” said Greg Flynn, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Flynn Restaurant Group, who owns Applebee’s. “Last year was another banner year, raising $545,839. None of this would be possible without the outstanding commitment of our dedicated staff and the generous support of guests. We look forward to another successful year.”
While fighting her own battle with neuroblastoma at just four years old, Alexandra Scott set up a lemonade stand in her front yard to benefit childhood cancer research. She raised more than $2,000.
Alex died in 2008 after raising more than $1 million for childhood cancer research. Alex’s family continues to partner with businesses for childhood cancer research.
Only 4% of all federal funding for cancer research goes to study pediatric cancers. Since the first lemonade stand, the foundation has grown into one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the country, raising more than $250 million and funding over 1,000 research projects.
In 2021, one of those research projects even led to the discovery of a cure for a specific type of neuroblastoma.
“Applebee’s is truly one of ALSF’s most dedicated partners, raising money every year since 2005,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and co-executive director of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
“While the fight against childhood cancer continues, so does the support of Applebee’s restaurants and guests across the country. We are so grateful for their continued partnership to help find cures and support families during their child’s treatment and beyond.”
Contact staff writer Jayden Kennett at 317-762-7847 or by email jaydenk@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @JournoJay.
