What Inspired a Westport Mom to Co-Found Angel-ade for Families in Crisis

It all started with a lemonade stand. Something familiar, something small. But for Andi Sklar, that modest beginning quickly became a powerful way to support families facing unimaginable struggles. As a longtime Westport resident and active member of her community, Andi knew she wanted to do more than just watch others create change. She wanted to be part of it.

Angel-ade, the now well-known lemonade stand initiative supporting Al’s Angels, grew from that first spark. It was created to raise funds and awareness for children and families dealing with life-threatening illnesses and severe financial hardship. What began as a local effort turned into a wide-reaching campaign that brought people together for a cause bigger than themselves.

What Inspired Andi Sklar to Community Services?

A Journey Rooted in Community Involvement

Andi Sklar’s dedication to community service didn’t start with Angel-ade. Her path was shaped by years of involvement in Westport and beyond. One of her earliest roles was chairing the preschool committee at Temple Israel Early Childhood Center. From there, she immersed herself in local causes, finding purpose in helping others and drawing strength from the relationships she built along the way.

It was during her work with Jacob’s Cure in New York City which is a nonprofit organization focused on rare pediatric disorders,  that Andi first witnessed the impact that targeted fundraising can have. The experience stayed with her, lighting a fire that would continue to grow through her efforts in Westport.

Building Something Children Could Be Part Of

Andi Sklar wasn’t just thinking of raising money. She was thinking about how to bring people together. One of her goals with Angel-ade was to create something children could take part in. Too often, kids feel powerless when they hear about sickness or hardship. By participating in Angel-ade, they could turn their concern into something active. Pouring lemonade, holding up signs, or collecting donations became small acts of kindness that left a lasting impression.

Over time, what started as a few neighborhood stands turned into a coordinated effort across multiple locations. Families, schools, and local businesses got involved. The sense of togetherness made every cup of lemonade more meaningful.

From Lemonade to Lasting Change

Angel-ade was only the beginning for Andi. Her commitment to children’s health led her to PinkAid, an organization that helps underserved breast cancer patients. There, she served as Auction Chair and later as Event Chair, helping raise more than $1 million. It wasn’t about recognition. It was about getting results for those who needed support.

She later deepened her focus on pediatric health, especially through her work with Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Events like Hearts In Harmony and Check Your Beat weren’t just fundraisers; they were moments of action. At Check Your Beat, Andi helped provide free EKGs to children, promoting early detection and preventing possible tragedies.

Why She Keeps Going

After sixteen years in Westport, Andi Sklar still pours her heart into every event she supports. Whether it’s raising money, organizing volunteers, or simply showing up, her motivation stays the same: to make life a little easier for families going through the hardest of times.

Angel-ade was just one chapter, but it showed what happens when people decide to act. Andi’s story is a reminder that doing good doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, it starts with a pitcher of lemonade and a heart ready to help.