Two young Whistler brothers recently raised $145.50 for the Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS) Food Bank by selling lemonade.
The idea came to eight-year-old Blake Zimcik while flipping through an issue of Chickadee magazine. What started as a fun summer project soon became a meaningful fundraiser. Blake’s mom, Hailey Zimcik, initially suggested he donate half of the proceeds to a local charity. Instead, Blake chose to give every penny.
“It was nice to feel helpful to the community,” Blake said. “We need each other, and it’s important to take care of each other.”
Blake’s younger five-year-old brother, Parker, also pitched in, joining his big brother under the hot sun to serve sweet and sour drinks to passersby.
Blake selected the WCSS Food Bank as the recipient of the funds. Hailey has been volunteering there since fall 2024, and her efforts inspired Blake to give back.
Hailey said she came down on the day of the sale to find Blake in the kitchen, cutting and squeezing lemons on his own.
“He thoughtfully planned out everything—from designing the sign to creating a supplies list and testing recipes,” she said. “His kind heart and maturity continue to surprise me every day. It was also wonderful to see Parker step in during the sale—watching him follow in Blake’s footsteps and contribute was a proud moment for me as a parent.”
Blake said a tour of the food bank helped him understand just how important the service is.
“They give people food who need it, and you need food for energy and to be healthy,” he said. “Everyone needs food to be healthy. The Food Bank staff took me on a tour, and I got to see the work they do—it showed me how important donations are.”
Hailey said she’s been fortunate throughout her life to have time and opportunities to volunteer, which taught her to value compassion and empathy—lessons she’s now passing on to her sons.
“I hope that by volunteering, I’m helping to instil values of empathy, responsibility and community in my children,” she said. “They’ve had the chance to see first-hand how kindness, generosity and the collective strength of a community can create real change.
“My goal is for them to carry these lessons with them throughout their lives and to make volunteering a natural part of who they are. Ultimately, I want them to remember the importance of spreading a little extra kindness and compassion in their everyday actions, no matter how big or small.”
Blake’s advice for other kids? “You don’t always need to start big—you can start small and build on that. It’s also really fun!”
