Children and Youth

 

Knowledge is power. A core element of the Auxiliary’s mission, caring for our children and youth, is sharply focused on educating adults about the needs of our young people. We believe that the more people know and understand about the needs of the children in their communities, the more interest they will have in learning how they can help meet those needs.

In the American Legion Auxiliary, we do more than talk about it. The Auxiliary provides significant cash assistance and direct service and supports legislation that affects children at the local, state, and national levels. And while all children are important, the Auxiliary particularly focuses on helping the children of our veterans and military.

 

Purpose Statement
To work collaboratively with The American Legion to direct and sponsor programs and services that provide care and protection for our nation’s children, especially those of our military and veterans.

 

Star Spangled Kids

“Star Spangled” Kids is an initiative to educate children and youth in the history of the United States from the aspect of patriotism, Americanism, and the U.S. Constitution. Auxiliary members can partner with the American Legion Family, team with their Education chairman, and bring veterans or active duty military into the classrooms to talk about what their service means to defending the Constitution.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Youth Hero/Good Deed Awards

To recognize and reward the positive actions of our children and youth, the Auxiliary bestows two special national awards to youth nominated by local units. The Youth Hero Award recognizes someone under 18 years of age who performs a heroic act of physical bravery.

 

The Good Deed Award is for youths under 18 years of age who have contributed in a special way to society through community service.

 

Operation: Military Kids

This U.S. Army collaborative effort with America's communities supports the children and youth impacted by deployment. The program’s goal is to connect military children and youth with local resources in order to achieve a sense of community support and enhance their well-being.

 

The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation

The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation was created in 1954 to provide other nonprofit organizations with the means to educate the public about the special needs of children, particularly advocating preventive solutions. The Auxiliary supports this organization monetarily and promotes its mission in partnership with The American Legion and Sons of The American Legion.