IVAC's 2nd annual Lemonade Day Youth Market in Utica

Over 35 student entrepreneurs are gearing up for IVAC's 2nd annual Lemonade Day Youth Market in Utica on May 4th! This event invites the community to rally behind these budding business owners, showcasing the products and services they've diligently crafted through the Lemonade Day Illinois Valley program. Beyond just lemonade stands, this initiative fosters vital life skills like business acumen, accountability, financial literacy, goal setting, and teamwork, ultimately empowering youngsters to establish and manage their enterprises. The impact is manifold: it cultivates financial literacy, fuels entrepreneurship crucial for economic development, instills responsibility and self-sufficiency, and fosters mentorship while strengthening family bonds. Bill Zens, IVAC Executive Director, expresses excitement about the program's growth, from 18 to 118 students this year, underscoring its resonance among both students and educators. The kickoff celebration and Youth Market on May 4th promise a showcase of youthful innovation, featuring businesses ranging from baked goods to custom-painted shoe services, all thanks to the support of partners like ROE, local schools, and business entities. Join us in celebrating these young visionaries on May 4th at Country Kids- Utica from 10 a.m. to noon, and for inquiries, contact Bill Zens at IVAC at 815-223-0227.