Elkhart County Lemonade Day names Entrepreneur of the Year

ELKHART, Ind. - On June 3, young business owners set up lemonade stands in local parks, neighborhoods, in front of retail shops, and other public spaces to sell sweet lemonade, treats, and other fun items, and one lucky kid has been named Elkhart County Lemonade Day Entrepreneurs of the Year.

Among the participants were Wesley and Jeremey Yoder who set up their stand “The Lemon Patch” at the Goshen Farmers Market with great success, earning a $300 profit.

Jeremy was asked the question of why he wanted to participate in Lemonade Day, to which he replied, “My mom has always told me that learning how to be successful at my own business would be really great for me. See, I have autism. It’s actually pretty great. It’s my superpower. It helps my brain see things in a different way than other people. So, my mom helps me figure out the best ways to use my brain. Practicing things like being social and also listening to people while looking at them. Lots of other things that I practice too.”

The prize for winning the competition is the opportunity to set up their stand at the Elkhart Jazz Festival, June 23 to 25.

The boys, along with their mother Angela, will be serving up lemonade to thirsty music goers in hopes of raising even more money for their Non-profit of choice.

In keeping with the "Spend some, Share some, and Save some" model of Lemonade Day, Wesley and Jeremy were able to donate money to the Here Kitty, Kitty Cat Rescue as well as save for future computer games.

Kids who participate in Lemonade Day are taught how to set goals, develop a business plan, be creative through marketing, and put their plan in action to achieve their dreams.

They are encouraged to spend some of their hard-earned money on themselves; save some, open a bank account, and share some with a charity.

Be sure to find "The Lemon Patch" at the Elkhart Jazz Fest and show your support.