Houston’s long been known for entrepreneurism, but one young local entrepreneur helped launch a national movement to support other young people learn more about business, commerce and building self-confidence.
Lemonade Day is a free, fun experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start their own business, via a lemonade stand. Launched in Houston, Texas in 2007, Lemonade Day has grown from 2,700 kids in one city to 150,000 kids in 36 cities across America and Canada.
Young aspiring entrepreneurs benefit from a strategic 14-step process that walks them from a dream of owning and operating their own business to a business plan. The youth are encouraged to work hard and make a profit. They learn how to spend as well as how to save wisely. They are also encouraged to share by giving back to their communities.
This year’s goal is to engage 65,000 children in Lemonade Day Houston.
Houston Mayor Annise Parker kicked off Lemonade Day Houston preparations earlier this week, joined by Lemonade Day Houston staff, City officials, participating City departments, corporate and community partners and students from Neighborhood Centers Inc. Baker-Ripley Charter School. The mayor proclaimed May 5, 2013 as “Lemonade Day Houston,” when local children will set up lemonade stands at locations across the city.
Several City departments are assisting with the recruitment of Lemonade Day Houston participants, including the Mayor’s Office of Education Initiatives, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, the Mayor’s Office of Business Opportunity and the Health and Human Services Department. Lemonade Day Houston is coordinating with the City’s Multi-Service Centers to make the registration materials and backpack pickup available to youth throughout the Houston area. The Mayor’s Office of Education Initiatives is also coordinating with City and nonprofit partners to engage youth in this free program that encourages financial literacy and family engagement.
For more information about Lemonade Day Houston, call 281.565.1068 or visit www.houston.lemonadeday.org.