News : Area children raise $230 for AHA

These children helped raise $230 for the AHA in honor of Olivia Spencer.

For the second year in a row, a group of friends of the children of Joe and Jill Johnson have gathered in the Johnson yard in Vinton to sell lemonade and cookies, play and raise money to donate to a special need.

This year, the children raised $230 which they will donate to the American Heart Association in honor of Vinton resident Olivia Spencer.

Jill Johnson offered a special thanks to those who helped with the effort.

"I never had a doubt in my mind, but seeing today what amazing support we have is truly a blessing from God!" she said. "Thank you to everyone who made the effort to stop by, publicize the kids' event, or pray about it as it was truly a success! All 15 kids who helped sell lemonade (and play a bit too:) raised over $230 and were ecstatic that we get to give it to the American Heart Association to support Olivia Spencer!

God is truly good and brought all the details together so perfectly for us, and we know it could not have been possible without the wonderful support!!"

Olivia's mom, Kendra, thanked the children and their families for the effort, and how they have helped Olivia and others like her.

"Every single one of you has a heart of gold and we are lucky to be a part of this amazing family! When I heard the kids were going to have a lemonade stand and donate the money to The American Heart Association in honor of Olivia, my heart was overjoyed. This organization is very dear to us and without this type of fundraising and research Olivia would not be here today. Thank you!!"