Twelve-year-old Joseph Gonzalez at his 2014 lemonade stand in Corpus Christi. Courtesy photo
When life hands you lemons, start your own business, says the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, which is presenting the third annual Lemonade Day on May 9. The national program aims to teach kids entrepreneurial skills and inspire them to become business owners and leaders.
“It teaches them all the aspects of owning and operating a business,” said Paige Kimbell, executive director of the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “This is something they feel like they can do, and it teaches them the basics of business ownership.”
Registered participants receive a backpack and a workbook with instructions on how to develop a business plan, get funding, open a bank account, build a stand and make and sell their product. The program also encourages kids to “spend some, share some and save some.”
“Ultimately, it’s up to them what they do with the money,” Kimbell said. “A lot of the kids do choose to donate to a charity. Last year, one young lady made $900 at her stand, and she donated part of it to Ronald McDonald House.”
Last year, 1,400 kids registered, and 500 of them set up stands. Kimball said more are expected this year.
Everyone is encouraged to take the Lemonade Tour of Stands. You can get a map or just drive around. Stands will be all over the city, said Kimbell, including several at La Palmera mall and other businesses. Some will be set up in neighborhoods and at major attractions. Mayor Nelda Martinez will make her usual rounds, buying and sipping lemonade.
LEMONADE EXTRAS
Harbor Bridge will light up lemon yellow May 7 for the kick-off party with all the sponsors.
As further incentive for kids to fully participate in the program, Hurricane Alley has agreed to provide the first 500 kids who report their business results after Lemonade Day with a free pass to visit the waterpark. Kids also can participate in this year’s business plan contest. Ten finalists will have the chance to win $100 each towards building materials and supplies for their stands. Every registrant is entered for a chance to win a stand built by Braselton Homes on display at La Palmera mall.
“The winner gets to sell in the middle of the mall, too,” Kimbell said. “It’s a great location!”
Lead sponsors this year include Kleberg Bank, Mike Shaw Automotive Group, La Palmera, H-E-B, First Community Bank, Flint Hills Resources, Sterling Personnel, Braselton Homes, ZJZ Hospitality and Hurricane Alley.
Everyone in the community has a job on Lemonade Day, either buying or selling, Kimbell said. “Corpus Christi resident are encouraged to purchase a cup of lemonade to demonstrate how our community cares for the future of youth in Corpus Christi.”
