Somewhere in Galveston County, a child is going to hold a crumpled dollar bill on Saturday, May 2, like it’s a trophy. Not because it’s a lot of money—but because it’s the first dollar they earned, not received. That one dollar changes something. Confidence clicks on, and possibility suddenly feels real.

On Lemonade Day Galveston County, more than 800 young entrepreneurs will set up lemonade stands across our community—outside businesses, in neighborhoods, and at festivals throughout the county. We encourage you to pull over, stop, and support them. Plan ahead and bring some cash to fill that jar. Every purchase matters.

Building Skills—and Confidence—for Life

Since 2012, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce has proudly led Lemonade Day Galveston County through the Galveston Chamber Partnership, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Over the years, we’ve engaged over 10,000 children county-wide.

I’ve had countless conversations with young entrepreneurs about what they’ve learned, and they beam with pride as they talk about their stand, their customers, and their goals. Lemonade Day teaches more than business basics—it encourages a simple but powerful philosophy: spend a little, save a little, and share a little. That’s a lesson we can all appreciate.

Every Lemonade Day story is different. Some children build their business entirely on their own, while others turn their stand into a family affair. Either way, each stand represents courage, effort, and growth—and every child deserves encouragement.

A Community-Wide Effort

This year, we’ve partnered with the League City Regional Chamber of Commerce to expand Lemonade Day across Galveston County. My sincere thanks to Bryan Bolton, Shasta Martin, Gina Downs, and their committee, along with our Lemonade Day Committee Chairs Courtney Solano and Darla Murray, and the many volunteers who helped spread the word and secure sponsors.

We’re also excited to introduce the first-ever Lemonade Day Headquarters at Hendley Green, 2028 Strand, hosted by Darla Murray with EventSource. This new location gives ten young entrepreneurs the opportunity to set up their stands on Lemonade Day (May 2) in a central spot—another way our community is stepping up in support.

At the time of writing this column, 75 local businesses have signed up to host lemonade stands. As part of the learning experience, participants reach out directly to request permission—practicing communication, professionalism, and confidence.

The Impact Speaks for Itself

Post-program surveys show the lasting impact of Lemonade Day:

  • 92% improvement in communication
  • 90% improvement in self-esteem
  • 88% improvement in math
  • Plus, on average kids make a profit of $168.08 at their stand and see their profits increase each year they participate in the program

We are grateful to our Presenting Investors Farmers Insurance, Moody Foundation and Schlitterbahn Waterpark; our Main Squeeze Sponsors; and all Fresh Squeeze and Lemon Drop Sponsors who make this program possible.

We’ll see you out and about on Saturday, May 2. When you stop for a cup of lemonade, know you’re investing in confidence, character, and the future of our community.