LemonAid’s Final Year Marks 25th Anniversary of 9/11

On the evening of September 11, 2001, Chris Hauri and her neighbors in River Forest gathered around a firepit, considering the chaos that had unfolded that day. It was a poignant moment, and they decided to contribute to their community. This led to the creation of LemonAid, a block-wide lemonade stand to raise funds for local charities.

This year marked the 25th anniversary of 9/11. For the past 24 years, LemonAid has consistently raised money for charities in River Forest and nearby areas. Hundreds from Oak Park and River Forest continued this tradition, while also honoring the anniversary of the attacks at Friday’s event in the 700 block of Bonnie Brae. Organizers announced this would be the final year for LemonAid.

I’ve never seen LemonAid so crowded, one attendee commented.

Organizers decided to end the event due to the considerable effort involved and the original members stepping back from their leadership roles. Yet, they took the opportunity to commemorate two decades of charity work, all while serving lemonade.

Co-founder Chris Hauri expressed joy in seeing children develop a sense of philanthropy, learning that kind acts can significantly impact those in need. She smiled as attendees donated at the 25th event held on September 11, 2026.

In its early years, LemonAid supported one or two charities annually. For its final year, nearly 30 charities benefited from the funds raised. It started in 2002 to engage the community’s children with charitable causes, with initially just a few lemonade tables. The first year raised around $400 for the Hephzibah Children’s Association in Oak Park. Over time, it grew into a grand celebration of generosity, much to the surprise of co-founder Patty Henek.

It’s almost hard to put into words; you almost have to experience it to fully appreciate it, Henek noted.

LemonAid has raised over $700,000 for various organizations over its lifetime. Those who began as kids in the event now hold co-chair positions and participated in planning for the last time. The Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society benefited from LemonAid 2021, receiving funds that helped sponsor a medical exam room named in honor of the group.

Marketing Director Rowena Abrahams from the Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society expressed gratitude for receiving a state-of-the-art exam room.

Earlier on the anniversary day, Oak Park community members and local officials commemorated the 9/11 attacks with a solemn ceremony. The Oak Park Fire Station 1 hosted the event. Safety officials presented the colors and rang a bell to honor the civilians and safety personnel who lost their lives. They meticulously read the names of the fallen safety officials and reminded attendees to remember the sacrifice of those who protected the country.

September 11 showed our country what it meant to come together, said Oak Park Police Chief Shatonya Johnson. It showed public safety, displayed what we do best, putting others before us, she added.