Learning to Give Back During College for Kids

In 100 degree heat, with shade tents and water misters, seventh and eighth grade College for Kids students set up two lemonade stands – Alex’s Lemonade Stands – to raise money for childhood cancer research.

 The project was a part of this summer’s College for Kids “Giving Back” class, to teach students the importance of giving to others in need.

“I thought $250 was a pretty good goal, but the kids said they could do better,” said Paul Burkhardt, OCCC Community Outreach coordinator.

By three o’clock in the afternoon, with an hour left in the project, the students knew they were close to reaching their $500 goal. Little did they know how much they would exceed it.

“These kids did a tremendous job,” said Burkhardt. “Never underestimate the power of young minds. Together, they raised a total of $845 to donate to the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.”

Because of their success, Brannon Dresel, Community Education coordinator received two pies in the face from the students themselves. The goal next year is to raise $1000. If that goal is met, Dr. Steven Bloomberg, Community Development vice president will take his pie-in-the-face turn.

During the week, prior to running the actual lemonade stand, students learned all aspects of fundraising, planning and promoting an event during the “Giving Back” class.

If you were unable to donate during the first lemonade stand, College for Kids fifth and sixth graders will be hosting their fundraising lemonade stand on Thursday, July 12 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the OCCC FACE Center. You can also donate online by clicking the link here: www.alexslemonade.org/mypage/81879.

For more information about the next College for Kids “Giving Back” class or service project, or how to enroll your children, please contact Brannon Dresel at ext.7205.