Wayne County Lemonade Day set to return

Wayne County Lemonade Day, a free experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business — a lemonade stand — is returning on June 8.

Lemonade Day is available to youth of all ages; however, it is targeted to youth in third grade through fifth grade. While the lessons can be completed without adult assistance, the guidance of a parent, mentor or caring adult can provide additional support in the learning process. Youth must be registered by a parent or mentor with a valid email address.

Young entrepreneurs will set up across Wayne County to sell their products on Saturday, June 8.

The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to take ownership of their lives and become productive members of society.

Each child who registers receives access to the Lemonade Day curriculum, which teaches them lessons like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors and giving back to the community. Along the way they acquire skills in goal-setting and problem-solving and gain self-esteem. They keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some.

Kids set goals to buy Lego sets, open bank accounts, buy books, enjoy summer activities, purchase video games, support their 4-H projects and more. Some will donate a portion of their proceeds to organizations they are passionate about such as O’Huddle, Wayne County Humane Society, Wayne County Dog Shelter, their schools, veterans causes and more.

Prior to June 8 there are workshops scheduled May 28 at 7:15 p.m. and Thursday, May 30 at 5:30 p.m., presented by Chad Kauffman, co-founder of Kitty Poo Club, and Rodd Welker, president of Eagle Advisor Group. They will offer insight into what it means to be an entrepreneur and what it takes to operate a successful business. During this hour-long class, kids and their mentors will have the opportunity to brainstorm ideas for their stands in ways that relate to the lessons in the My Lemonade Day app. Both sessions will be hosted at the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, 377 W. Liberty St., Wooster.

It is encouraged people register for Wayne County Lemonade Day and start the lessons in the My Lemonade Day app prior to the workshop. Include everyone who will attend the workshop — kids and mentors — on registration. Both sessions will be the same, so select the date that works best for you to attend.

To register for the workshops and Wayne County Lemonade Day, visit www.woosterchamber.com/lemonade-day.