11-year-old kid raises over $61k for animal welfare through a lemonade stand

Delanie Dennis is a young girl with a big heart and an even bigger mission. At just 11 years old, she has raised over $61,000 for animal rescues in her local area through her lemonade stand, called Delanie's Lemonade Stand. Her dedication and passion for helping animals have not gone unnoticed, as she was named the "Kid of the Year" by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in 2022.

Delanie's love for animals began at a young age, and she decided to turn that love into something tangible by raising money for local animal rescues. "If you buy a lemonade, you can help the animals," she told "Good Morning America." Her lemonade stand, which is located in her family's Tampa restaurant, has been operating since 2019 and has since become a beloved fixture in the community.

According to ABC News, Delanie's efforts have not only raised funds for animal rescues but have also inspired others to get involved. She hosts an annual rescue event called "Squeeze the Day," where people can adopt animals. She also volunteers her time at her favorite animal rescue, which is home to her pet donkey, Burrito. Her passion and dedication to the cause have touched the hearts of many, including her parents. "It's been truly inspiring to see someone at such a young age with such a passion for people and animals to make things happen and make a change," said Julie Dennis, Delanie's mother.

In 2022, Delanie was recognized by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as the organization's "Kid of the Year." In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the importance of youth involvement in creating change. "I especially want all the kids out there to know that I think kids, at any age, can change the world," she said. She goes on to add, "The future is that hopefully animals' lives will all be changed." 

Delanie's efforts have not gone unnoticed by the community either. During a live appearance on "Good Morning America," she was surprised with a $2,500 donation to her lemonade stand from Veterinary Emergency Group, a veterinary hospital with locations across the country. Delanie plans to donate the money to Mastino Rescue, a nonprofit that helps rescue Neapolitan Mastiffs.

Delanie's Lemonade Stand is a great example of the power of one person's passion and determination to make a difference. Her story serves as an inspiration to all to find their drive and use it to bring about change. Delanie's message is a powerful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference. With young advocates like Delanie leading the way, there is no doubt that the future is bright for animals and the people who love them.