The word entrepreneur is based on the Sanskrit word “Antha Prerna,” which in translation means “self-motivated.” However, in the fourth grade when I learned how to spell entrepreneur, I didn’t think about motivation or what was required to be a great entrepreneur — I thought about being the boss. Business school later taught me that becoming an entrepreneur requires more than a boss mentality. In fact, entrepreneurs possess a specific skill set that gives them the power and know-how to change their lives, communities and ultimately, the world.
Many young people say they’d like to become entrepreneurs but few have occasions for hands-on experience. Our focus isn’t on showing kids how to turn lemons into lemonade. Although they’re good at making great lemonade! The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to become productive members of society–-the business leaders, social advocates, volunteers and forward-thinking citizens of tomorrow. At its core, the Lemonade Day program helps children thrive by building 26 of the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets®. Studies of more than 2.2 million young people consistently show that the more assets young people have, the less likely they are to engage in a wide range of high-risk behaviors and the more likely they are to succeed. These assets have power for all young people.
The success stories that come as a result of Lemonade Day celebrations are far-reaching. We’d like Lemonade Day to continue to expand its reach in the state and we know this can happen with your help. Though Lemonade Day is held annually in May, planning begins in the fall. Lemonade Day is looking to continue building partnerships with organizations and community groups across the state. Children as young as elementary-aged through middle school learn about every aspect of operating a business by opening a lemonade stand. More importantly, they learn that goals they set are achievable. Visit our website at https://lemonadeday.org/jackson to learn more about how you can get involved.
Keep Calm and Lemonade On.