Fifteen years ago, the beginnings of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation grew from the front yard lemonade stand of four-year-old cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott. Today, the foundation bearing her name has become one of the nation’s leading philanthropic organizations in support of pediatric cancer research.

A month-long campaign kicking off Monday marks the 11th consecutive year that franchisees of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar have supported Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Coming off a record of more than $1 million fundraising proceeds generated in 2014 — and nearly $5 million raised since 2005 — more than 870 Applebee’s restaurants nationwide will work toward topping the $6 million mark in 2015.

“As a longtime supporter of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, it is great to see Applebee’s support this amazing organization,” said Jeff Warden, CEO of The Rose Group. “Year after year we see the overwhelming generosity of our guests and associates as we band together to fight childhood cancer. We are humbled by what Applebee’s was able to achieve last year and look forward to another incredible fundraising campaign this year.”

As part of the brand’s broader Applebee’s Serves program, participating restaurants will raise funds in support of ALSF. Fundraising efforts, which vary by restaurant, include donating a portion of each lemonade and Summer Squeeze sales to ALSF. Applebee’s guests may also have an opportunity to donate to ALSF through the purchase of a paper lemon in support of childhood cancer research.

Additionally, Applebee’s restaurants will host a variety of events, including lemonade stands, golf tournaments, donation nights and more. Contact your local Applebee’s for further information and event details.

“The Apple American Group and Applebee’s partnerships with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation are extremely important to our organization and our neighborhood communities,” said Diann Banaszek, marketing partner of Apple American Group, a participating Applebee’s franchise organization. “Since we first began supporting Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Applebee’s participation has grown significantly. We are pleased that more than 870 locations, including all of our more than 470 restaurants, will be joining in the fight against childhood cancer this year. With the outpouring of support from our guests and fellow franchise groups, we’re expecting this year’s fundraiser to be the most successful yet.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation focuses on encouraging and empowering others, especially children, to raise money and awareness of childhood cancer research for treatments and cures.

For more information on this year’s Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Fundraising efforts visit your local Applebee’s restaurant.