Last summer Asher Effler, a 10-year-old with an amazing work ethic, was trying to find something to keep him busy. He wanted something that he could organize, raise some money, and help somebody all at the same time. So he discussed his options with his parents and together they decided to set up a table in the front yard and give away snow cones for a donation. Then he would use the money to purchase stuffed animals for the children at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.
But his first efforts did not go as expected. According to Asher, he did not have the right equipment. His snow cone machine was not able to do the job, and he neglected to get any syrup to add for the flavors. So he, with the help of his parents, purchased a better machine. He also offered some traditional flavors of grape, strawberry, and a few others. As his business grew and the donations increased, Asher was able to save enough to provide 84 stuffed animals to the children at ETCH.
This year, at 11 years old and with a year of experience, Asher set his goal at a donation of 100 stuffed animals. Using the wisdom gained from last year and the fact that UT Vols were in a national championship in baseball, he brainstormed a new flavor menu with the Vols in mind. He also recruited his sister Ansley, who is 7, and his brother Atlee Jake, who is 9, to help scoop ice and make sure the straws and spoons are available to customers. All three plan to shop for the stuffed animals under the supervision of Grandmother Sarah and parents, Jacob and Lauren. They buy the stuffed animals at Kohls because Kohls donates part of the purchase cost to ETCH also. So the donation is effectively doubled.
Asher says that he enjoys working and donating to help as he continues Asher's Cones for a Cause. He is planning another snow cone afternoon in mid July and will post the date on social media. His expanded menu celebrating the Vols Championship includes OMAVOLS Orange, a pina colada and orange mix, and Billy Bomb for Billy Amick, a mixture of apple and cherry. There is also a sugar-free flavored cone, and other sweet flavors too.
So if you happen to want to support a good cause and a young entrepreneur with a giving heart, stop by Remington Drive in Twisted Gables just off John Deere Drive in Maynardville to enjoy a frozen treat and donate to Asher's Cones for a Cause.