Two brothers from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, are being celebrated for their patriotic initiative. Noah, 11, and Cole Dingels, 8, have raised $60,000 for a nonprofit supporting veterans through their lemonade stand.
The brothers’ initiative began five years ago during a golf tournament hosted by Tee It Up for the Troops. The organization, a national nonprofit, organizes golf tournaments to aid American veterans in various aspects such as PTSD support, employment, housing, and more.
“I really liked it, it’s cool to see the veterans and present the money at the end of the night,” Noah shared. Cole added, “Honestly, it felt good.”
In their first year, the young entrepreneurs raised $359. Their fundraising efforts have since grown, yielding $60,000. The brothers expanded their offerings to include candy bars and golf balls at the tournaments, finding Snickers to be a player favorite.
Noah and Cole gained local sponsors who contribute to their mission. Their mother, Angela, noted the community’s support, with classmates and sports teammates often stopping by to encourage the boys.
“The lemonade stand has always been about giving back,” Angela stated. She described the charity work as contagious, expressing pride in her sons for demonstrating gratitude to veterans.
One such veteran is Harry Wisdom, a Vietnam War helicopter pilot who gifted his Silver Star to the boys as a token of appreciation. Wisdom expressed his admiration through a heartfelt letter, creating a meaningful connection with the Dingel family.
Tee It Up for the Troops, founded in 2005 and based in Burnsville, Minnesota, has raised over $19 million, supporting 400,000 military families. Executive director Chris LaRocque praised Noah and Cole as inspiring examples for the nation.
“What a great message for all of us in our country,” LaRocque remarked. “Especially at the 250th anniversary of our founding.”
LaRocque, an Army reserve officer, underscores the nonprofit’s mission as deeply important. He commended the young brothers for their initiative, which aligns closely with his values and experiences.