In the heat of a typical Chicago summer, a homemade lemonade stand isn’t just a refreshing sight — it can be a ticket to a dream. Sisters Jade and Joy Lee from Roseland turned lemons into an unexpected sports adventure, when their lemonade stand, a small fixture at the corner of 111th Street and Princeton Avenue, caught the attention of local philanthropists. The motivated siblings, aged 12 and 11 respectively, had a mission: to witness their basketball idols, the Chicago Sky, in action on the upcoming Barbie Night game against the Indiana Fever, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.
Through their industrious efforts, which included enduring the year’s hottest day, the Lee sisters managed to raise a significant amount — just under $500 towards their $700 goal. As per WGN-TV, Jade Lee stated, “I really want to meet her very badly,” referring to Chicago Sky forward, Angel Reese. In a demonstration of community spirit, and perhaps a sweet dash of serendipity, Early Walker, CEO of I'm Telling, Don't Shoot, happened upon their stand — culminating in a generous offer that exceeded their imaginations.
A $2,000 donation from Walker, as detailed by the Chicago Sun-Times, ensured not only game tickets for the young businesswomen and their mother but also a limousine ride and dinner at a renowned restaurant. “We have to support this, there’s no way in the world kids will continue to do this if we don’t support it,” Walker expressed.
Their grandfather, Bishop Jerome Powell, shared with WGN-TV the girls' penchant for entrepreneurial and charitable endeavors, mentioning their previous initiative, 'Hot Dog for a Hug.' Delighted by their success, he said, “They’ve been coming up with a whole lot of things and I’m excited. I’m very proud of my grandkids. They’re just amazing.”
