Lemonade Day returns to Lexington for its third year, led by Jump Start U and City Director Alene Willingham. Born and raised in Lexington, Alene brought this free program to her hometown to inspire youth with entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and a sense of community. After returning to Lexington, Alene wanted to give back to the city that shaped her.

Lemonade Day teaches kids how to start and run their own business — a lemonade stand — through hands-on learning. “It’s about showing our youth they can dream big and achieve their goals,” Alene shares. Beyond teaching kids business skills, Lemonade Day fosters community pride and engagement. Families, local businesses, and mentors unite to support young entrepreneurs, making the program a citywide celebration.

In its first year, participants’ stands popped up in downtown Lexington, with some kids donating earnings to local causes, proving the program’s character-building impact. Building on last year’s success, Year two brings new workshops and expanded participation.

"We’re not just teaching kids to sell lemonade," Alene explains. "We’re teaching them to dream, plan, and act." Jump Start U envisions Lemonade Day becoming a cherished Lexington tradition, empowering the next generation of leaders and change makers.

Lemonade Day Lexington 2026

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Lexington

Team Members