Riley Miller

Published 12:00 am Thursday, April 22, 2010

Bowling Green teenager Riley Miller has dedicated much of her young life to raising funds for childhood cancer research, after tragedy struck her family multiple times. Riley’s brothers Reid and Randon, both died from a rare childhood cancer. Their deaths encouraged Riley to want to do something, so since 2005, she has been organizing Warren County’s string of Alex’s Lemonade Stands. Her enthusiasm for the cause has galvanized neighborhoods to raise money for the event. Children and parents alike come together on a summer Saturday afternoon, flagging down passing motorists to offer them a cool drink of summer’s refreshment. In exchange, residents offer donations ranging from the change in their pockets to checks for $25 or more. More than 200 volunteers helped out at 30 stands across the county last year. The teenager’s leadership and organizational skills in the effort have been responsible for helping the community raise more than $87,000 for cancer research since starting the stands here. Nearly every year the event has grown, garnering more volunteers and more money for the cause. Parents have commented on how Riley’s efforts have inspired their children to become involved in community service, something, which if encouraged at a young age continues for a lifetime.

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