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The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Foundation was officially founded on November 10, 1919, as an affiliated organization of the American Legion, and its formal establishment was finalized in 1921. The Auxiliary was created to allow women to support the work of the American Legion, which was formed by veterans of World War I. This partnership aimed to harness the dedication of women in service to veterans, military personnel, their families, and local communities.
Origins and Purpose
The formation of the ALA was inspired by the need for an organized group to assist the American Legion in its mission to aid and advocate for veterans, service members, and their families. The founders recognized the crucial role women played in caregiving, community-building, and advocacy.
The Auxiliary’s purpose mirrors that of the American Legion but with a distinct focus on empowering women to contribute to this mission. Its key objectives include:
•Support for Veterans and Families: Through programs like providing resources, advocacy, and emotional support.
•Community Service: Promoting civic responsibility, patriotism, and volunteerism.
•Education and Scholarships: Offering scholarships and educational programs to youth, including children of veterans.
•Advocacy: Supporting policies and legislation that benefit veterans, military personnel, and their families.
Membership
Initially, membership was open to women who were directly related to American Legion members. Over time, eligibility expanded to include women who are related to individuals who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces during wartime. Membership also includes men in certain circumstances, reflecting a more inclusive approach.
Milestones and Contributions
1.1920s–1930s: The Auxiliary began building programs for veterans’ rehabilitation and child welfare. It also focused on fostering patriotism among youth through essay contests and scholarship programs.
2.World War II Era: The ALA expanded its efforts to support soldiers and their families, including organizing blood drives, sending care packages, and providing financial aid to military families.
3.Post-War Activities: The organization shifted its focus to rehabilitating disabled veterans and addressing mental health challenges, such as PTSD.
4.Modern Era: The Auxiliary continues to address issues such as homelessness among veterans, military family support, and educational outreach.
Programs and Impact
The ALA has several hallmark programs, including:
•Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation: Supporting VA hospitals and clinics with donations, volunteering, and advocacy.
•Children & Youth Programs: Addressing the needs of children in military families, such as educational resources and recreational activities.
•Poppy Program: Distributing artificial poppies to raise awareness and funds for veterans’ causes. The poppy is a symbol of remembrance for those who served in war.
•Girls State and Girls Nation: Leadership programs designed to educate young women about government, citizenship, and civic engagement.
Organizational Structure
The Auxiliary is organized into departments (state-level organizations) and units (local chapters). It is governed by an executive board and maintains close collaboration with the American Legion, though it operates as an independent entity.
Legacy
With over 600,000 members as of today, the ALA is one of the largest women’s patriotic service organizations in the United States. Its contributions to veterans, families, and communities over the past century have left a lasting legacy of service and support.
The organization remains steadfast in its mission to honor the sacrifices of veterans while fostering patriotism, community service, and leadership among its members
Their “Service, Not Self.” motto reflects the organization’s dedication to selflessly serving veterans, military personnel, their families, and communities. It embodies the Auxiliary’s core values of honor, duty, patriotism, and volunteerism, emphasizing that the focus is always on helping others rather than personal gain.
About The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation (LEGION-AUX):
Founded in 1919, the American Legion Auxiliary’s mission is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.
The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation National Office Address:
3450 Founders Road
Indianapolis,
IN
46268
The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation Directions:
Membership Requirements:
Membership in The American Legion Auxiliary shall be limited to the: (1) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion; and (2) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who served in either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918 and any time after December 7, 1941 who, being a citizen of the United States at the time of their entry therein served on active duty in the Armed Forces of any of the governments associated with the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; (3) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who were in the Armed Forces of the United States during either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918; and any time after December 7, 1941 who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and (4) to those women who of their own right are eligible for membership in The American Legion.* * A woman who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary regardless of whether or not she is a member of The American Legion. However, eligibility of her female relatives (sister, mother, direct descendants) and/or spouse depends upon her membership in The American Legion.
Financial Information:
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