Saturday, The Hills saw something special-our very first Kidpreneurs Trail, an event where children across the village set up stalls to share their creativity, sell their products, and experience the thrill of entrepreneurship.
I started this event because I’ve always believed in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. From founding my first venture right out of college to building businesses that have scaled globally, I’ve seen firsthand how ideas, when nurtured, can grow into something far greater than we imagine. When I proposed the concept of a kidpreneur event during my run for mayor, it wasn’t about politics-it was about planting the seeds of entrepreneurship right here in our village.
Yesterday proved something important: you don’t need titles to make things happen in The Hills. What you need is will, good intentions, and a community that believes in supporting one another. With parents, neighbors, and city leaders coming together, 30+ kids proudly showcased everything from lemonade and baked goods to handcrafted art and collectibles. It wasn’t just about sales; it was about confidence, learning, and the joy of sharing ideas with others.
From handcrafted creations to sweet treats, lemonade stands, Pizza, Pokémon cards, and more, nearly two dozen stalls were spread across the community-each one proudly run by kids eager to share their talents and ideas. Golf carts buzzed from stop to stop as residents followed the trail, chatting with the young business owners and cheering them on.
Parents and community members noted how meaningful it was to see children not only showcase their creativity but also build confidence, learn responsibility, and experience the joy of connecting with neighbors. For many kids, it was their very first time handling money, pitching their products, and interacting with customers-skills that will stay with them for life.
The event also reflected what makes The Hills unique: a village that comes together to celebrate, encourage, and invest in its own. Smiles, laughter, and the sound of kids proudly announcing their sales filled the air, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all the parents who supported the effort, to Mayor Proud, Councilmember Marty, and the Hills Country Club for encouraging the idea, and most of all, to the 30+ kids who made this trail such a special occasion.
This was only the beginning. Based on the incredible response, the Kidpreneurs Trail promises to grow even bigger in the years ahead-another reminder that here in The Hills, we don’t just live together, we thrive together.