In middle school, most kids are focused on homework, sports or hanging out with friends. But for Ava Mincey, something different was brewing — and it wasn’t just lemonade.

“I’ve always loved doing small community projects,” Ava said. “One day, it just hit me that something as simple as lemonade could bring people together and also make a difference.”

It was an idea as fresh as the drinks she would eventually serve, built on a desire to give back. What started as a homegrown project in her own front yard when she was just 11 years old has since become Ava’s Lemonade for a Cause, a now-beloved presence at local festivals, parties, fundraisers, weddings and charity events across Bulloch County.

“Lemonade felt perfect,” she said. “It’s refreshing, easy to share, and it has that classic ‘neighborhood stand’ feel that instantly draws people in. I wanted something simple but meaningful, and lemonade became a way for me to connect with people while supporting a cause that matters to me.”

That cause is deeply personal to Ava, whose great-grandmother Daisy died from Alzheimer’s disease in 2009, before she ever got the chance to know her great-granddaughter.

“Alzheimer’s has touched my family, and I’ve seen firsthand how hard it can be on not just the person diagnosed, but the entire family,” she said.

That’s the reality that led to her decision to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association and its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, in hopes of contributing in some small way to the fight against the devastating disease.

“Alzheimer’s doesn’t just affect memory — it affects dignity, relationships, everything,” she said. “The Alzheimer’s Association does so much for awareness, research and support, and I wanted to be part of that mission. It felt right to pour my heart into something bigger than myself.”

And she has poured generously — both literally and figuratively. Not yet including this year’s total, Ava, now 16, has already raised more than $20,000 in sales and donations, every dollar given in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. 

A day at the stand

The work may look sweet, but it’s still a labor of love. Setting up, serving, selling, packing up and cleaning — she handles it all with a smile, often with the help of her parents and two brothers. 

“Thankfully it doesn't take me long to set up,” she said. “Once the event starts, it usually takes me about 

30 minutes to have my first customer. Depending on the amount of attendees, I usually do not get a break until I'm sold out, or the event is over.”

That endurance says a lot about Ava as a person — determined and fueled by a deep sense of purpose.

“My favorite part of events is serving repeat customers and meeting new customers and hearing the stories of the caregivers and patients living with Alzheimer’s,” she said. “That kind of connection makes every cup worth it.”

For locals wanting to stop by the stand or order by the gallon, she keeps the community updated through her Ava's Lemonade for a Cause Facebook page. Currently in her rotation of flavors are fresh-squeezed original lemonade as well as pineapple, blackberry, strawberry and low-sugar varieties. 

A heart for service

For Ava, now a junior at Statesboro High School, lemonade is only one expression of her boundless generosity. She is an eager volunteer, involved in projects throughout Bulloch County — serving alongside Feed the Boro, working with programs at 7th Mile Farm, even sponsoring Safe Haven’s annual Dancing with the Stars fundraiser. 

During the Christmas season, she donates bookbags and holiday gifts for children in need. And some of her sweetest memories are made during her “Friday happy hour” visits to Willow Pond Senior Care, where residents know her to be as sweet as the treats she often brings along — Coke floats, cupcakes, boiled peanuts and, of course, her signature lemonade.

“The fellowship is always great,” she said. “It all goes back to helping people feel remembered and supported.”

In every act of service, Ava embodies simplicity with intention, showing that caring for others doesn’t require a big budget, a professional platform or a nonprofit title. Sometimes all it takes is a table, a jug of lemonade and a willing heart.

“Even when I can’t do lemonade full time, I will always find a way to help,” she said. “Because giving back is just part of who I am.”

SUPPORT TEAM DAISY

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research for both patients and caregivers affected by the disease. Locally, the walk is held each November at Mill Creek Regional Park. Ava serves as captain for Team Daisy, named in honor of her late great-grandmother. Fundraising for the 2025 walk will continue until December 31, so there’s still time to donate! Click here to give.