Registration open for Anthem LemonAid, to benefit Children’s Hospital of Richmond
Registration is now open for Anthem LemonAid, an annual summer benefit event for Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU.
The event, presented by Richmond Ford, will return for its 26th year July 17–19. Families, businesses and community groups are invited to register and participate in the initiative, which began as a small one in the early 2000s has grown into a powerful regional movement – raising more than $285,000 in 2025 and surpassing $2 million cumulatively raised to benefit CHoR’s hematology and oncology programs.
“Over the past 26 years, Anthem LemonAid has continued to grow in both reach and impact,” said Lauren Zaller Moore, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Foundation. “This fundraiser reflects the generosity of the Richmond region and the meaningful difference that can be made when a community comes together. It is always fun to see children running lemonade stands on a summer day, and it is especially meaningful when those efforts support other children in need. We look forward to seeing that impact continue to grow this year.”
Each year, an Anthem LemonAid ambassador is selected to represent the campaign. This year’s ambassador is John, a 6-year-old cancer survivor whose resilience and joy reflect the spirit of the event, according to organizers.
John was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2023 during his first visit to CHoR. What followed was a long and difficult treatment journey supported by a dedicated care team and a strong network of family and friends.
“It’s every parent’s worst fear, and for us, it became reality,” said his parents, Ryan and Kaitlyn. “There were days we didn’t know how we would get through, but the team at CHoR never left our side. Through their compassionate care, our faith and advances in treatment, they helped carry our family to the other side of this journey, and for that we are so thankful.”
On Dec. 12, 2025, John rang the ceremonial bell marking the end of treatment. Now a kindergartner, he has regained his strength and energy and enjoys spending time on the tee-ball field, practicing jiu-jitsu and riding his skateboard with his siblings and friends.
Registration for Anthem LemonAid is now open and is free through Tuesday, July 14. Participants will receive a complimentary LemonAid event kit, including lemonade mix, cups, a pitcher and official signage, along with a personalized online fundraising page to help amplify their impact.
Kits will be available for pickup on Wednesday, July 15 and Thursday, July 16 at Children's Hospital of Richmond's Brook Road campus.
For details, visit www.lemonaidforkids.org/register.
