Bellevue-based Crayons All Natural Beverage Company has raised more than $156,000 for charities around the world as part of its inaugural “Pink Lemonade Brigade,” a nation-wide lemonade stand fundraiser empowering kids to support a charity of their choice.

More than 1,000 children in 46 U.S. states joined forces to raise money to benefit their favorite charities. The event was held on Saturday, June 21

To set the cross-country fundraiser in motion, Crayons supplied the first 1,000 child registrants with a free lemonade stand, decorating kit, and 120 cans of its all natural Tickled Pink Lemonade.

“The overwhelming response and generosity of kids across the country is truly magical,” said Ron Lloyd, CEO of Crayons. “We are so proud to be able to empower a generation of budding philanthropists, entrepreneurs and leaders.”

Funds raised at each pink lemonade stand ranged from $35 to $530, with an average of $150 per stand. The causes chosen by kids included aid for China earthquake victims, schools, and helping kids who have cancer.

The most selected charity categories were animal protection with 192 stands, followed by support for local community associations with 117 stands, church/religious organizations at 102, and 99 lemonade stands to benefit kids in need. One hundred percent of funds raised will be donated to charity.

The “Pink Lemonade Brigade” was sparked by 7-year-old Connor Lloyd, the son of the company’s CEO.