Ella Mateja was eight years old when she began selling lemonade as a way to raise funds for our brave veterans and first responders. She was inspired by her grandpa Ken and his brothers, all of whom served in the military. Ella has dedicated herself to running the lemonade stand every year until she graduates. In the last seven years, Ella's little lemonade stand has helped raise funds for the Missouri Military Memorial Foundation, Fallen Heroes Dream Ride, Missouri Patriot Guard, St. Charles County Veterans Museum, BackStoppers, and the local VFW.

It has been amazing how the community has come together to raise nearly $120,000 to remember her heroes; our fallen military personnel and first responders. One hundred percent of all donations go directly to the organizations.