The waning rays of summer break from school mark final opportunities for fun kid fundraisers such as lemonade stands, but not an end to the giving ways of Vancouver Island’s young people. The Kids Care program is designed for engaged and enthusiastic youth to raise funds and awareness, whether it's by painting rocks, performing dances or selling lemonade About 15 donations a year come through the program, said Shelley Engelhardt, director of development for Island Kids First, Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. One trio of girls created a dance group called The Pickles, and performs by-donation, then makes an annual donation. “It’s really so inspiring to see the level of creativity that kids can create themselves. It’s so lovely when they put together a lemonade stand and indicate their proceeds will be coming to a local organization,” Engelhardt said. People tend to support kids, she added. “I’ve never passed a lemonade stand and not bought a glass. And it’s lovely that kids can experience making a difference in their own community.” As an organization that supports children, the program launched in 2006 and enables kids helping other kids. They’ve responded with more than 300 donations over that time – the average gift is just over $100 – tallying up to $33,000 raised. “It’s such a lovely way for kids to be introduced to philanthropy and to give back to kids in their own community,” Engelhardt said. “It’s a great time for kids to discover the power to help others … and knowing small efforts can make a big impact is really meaningful.” The Kids Care program helps young change-makers learn, lead and help others. Young donors also receive a special certificate for any donation beyond $20 and an opportunity to present their collection. While learning about philanthropy, and the charity of their choice if they’re not already familiar, they’re creating communication and leadership skills while building on self esteem and confidence. That thinking goes far to benefit charities beyond the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. This summer, for the third consecutive year, Anders Yeo turned lemons into support for Greater Victoria hospitals. On a warm August day, the 10-year-old boy stood confidently outside his Saanich home, alongside buddy Sully Jackman, selling regular and pink lemonade to those bold enough to brave the 29 C heat. Anders subsequently handed over every dollar he earned to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation – a non-profit that works with Island Health to enable donations to Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals. “It’s just good to make a difference in the community, and I think this money will go to a very good cause,” he told the Victoria News. Find the fundraising toolkit online at islandkidsfirst.com with resources and ideas for a variety of age levels. “I don’t think there are any efforts that are too small that can make a difference in the lives of Island kids,” Engelhardt said. - with files from Liam Razzell
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