Volunteers raised more than $87,000 to fund research into childhood cancer by selling cups of lemonade over the weekend as part of the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation regional event.

The effort, which is the second-largest in the nation, has raised more than $400,000 since it began in 2004. All of the proceeds will benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. Last Friday and Saturday, Alex’s Lemonade Stands were set up at the two Lawrence Hy-Vee stores, as well as other sites in the region.

The regional group will host one more event in an effort to reach this year’s fundraising goal of $95,000. It will hold a 24-hour comedy marathon from 9 p.m. June 19 until 9 p.m. June 20 at Westport Coffee House Theatre, 4010 Pennsylvania in Kansas City, Mo.

The Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation also will be recognized as one of the Kansas City Royals’ official charities during Saturday’s game at Kauffman Stadium. There will be a pregame ceremony and a local childhood cancer patient will throw the first pitch. Spectators are encouraged to wear yellow to show their support.