www.ALAforVeterans.org

May 2021 $3.75

American Legion Family Members Keep the Memories of our Fallen Heroes Alive on National Day® and Every Day

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FEATURES IN EVERY ISSUE 32 RECRUITING FOR THE ENTIRE 4 NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S 52 ALL THINGS AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY MESSAGE ALA GIRLS STATE Attracting veterans to the Legion. Sons 6 BEHIND THE SCENES 53 ALA SCHOLARSHIP to the SAL. When we recruit together, 7 FROM OUR READERS RECIPIENTS: WHERE we bolster our membership to help more 8 JUNIOR MEMBERS ARE THEY NOW? veterans, military, and their families. 10 I AM THE ALA 54 WISE PERSON SAID 38 NATIONAL POPPY DAY® 13 IT’S ALL GOOD 55 LEGION FAMILY NEWS IS MAY 28 THIS YEAR 43 IMPACT ALA! 56 MISSION MATTERS Since its launch four years ago, this 50 BUILDING ALA 57 SOCIAL MEDIA special day has morphed into many kinds BRAND LOYALTY 58 THE LAST WORD of honor and remembrance activities.

ON THE COVER: rhoeas: Otherwise better known to American Legion Auxiliary members as the poppy we distribute annually in honor and remembrance of our fallen veterans. National Poppy Day® is May 28 this year. ABOVE: Lenny Hart, a U.S. Army combat infantry veteran of the Vietnam War, salutes during the national anthem at a POW-MIA watchfire event in Seaside Heights, N.J., last September. Standing next to Hart is ALA member Laurinda Miller of Unit 129 in Toms River (photo: Denise Henhoeffer). www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 3 FROM THE NATIONAL President It’s an emotional mainly because of the pandemic experience to witness and safety precautions such as social or participate in laying distancing. a wreath at a gravesite, But that doesn’t have to stop us planting a small flag from honoring our fallen heroes on there, or other solemn . We can still find safe demonstrations of our ways to hold events, ceremonies, and gratitude and respect. observations. I’ve already seen lots We remember our fallen of other ways Auxiliary members heroes in prayers, songs, have carried out ALA mission-based or moments of silence. outreach and activities. So I know We ask God to bless we can come up with ways to pay their souls and watch our respects this Memorial Day. Our over their families. It’s resolve to honor and serve is still even more of a moving intact; it’s just a matter of adapting experience when to current conditions. As we re- we do these things imagine our traditional tributes, together at all levels of please be aware of public health the American Legion guidelines and restrictions within Auxiliary and the entire your local communities and at federal American Legion government sites such as national Family. One lesson we’re cemeteries. HONORING SAFELY: My mom, Jeanne Paustian, all learning from the Though we may be apart this and I placed an American flag and at my COVID-19 pandemic is Memorial Day, we’ll be connected grandpa Roger Schroeder’s grave on Memorial Day that being together does in spirit and purpose through our 2020. Grandpa Schroeder served in the U.S. Navy not always mean being tributes on this occasion. And that’s a during World War II. ALA membership eligibility for in each other’s presence. special feeling! Mom and me is based on his service. On any day of One final thought: When the year, at least one counting your blessings, please There is something so special member of the Auxiliary or other remember to include our veterans, about paying respects to America’s parts of the Legion Family is paying troops, our fallen military heroes, fallen military heroes, particularly tribute to a fallen servicemember. and their families. For their service on Memorial Day. For me, the That makes me proud. But Memorial and sacrifice, up to and including specialness comes from the Day, May 31 this year, is the time set the ultimate sacrifice, we owe them knowledge that, though we may be aside specifically for all Americans to a place in our prayers, thoughts, and in different cities, states, and time show that respect. hearts. zones, we stand together as one to Due largely to the pandemic, honor the many. We make sure their last year’s Memorial Day events and ultimate sacrifice, made on behalf of activities were a lot different than our nation and its principles, will be they were in the past. And they’re Nicole Clapp remembered. likely to be different again this year, National President

Mark your calendars: May is Military Appreciation Month women who are servicemembers, veterans, military May 7: Military Spouse Appreciation spouses, or military moms. The ALA also wishes an Day is a tribute to the sacrifice and early “Happy Father’s Day” to all the men who are support of military spouses. servicemembers, veterans, military spouses, or military dads. Father’s Day is June 20. May 8: Victory in Europe Day (also known as V-E Day) is the anniversary of ’s unconditional surrender May 15: honors Americans in WWII on May 8, 1945. serving in the military. May 9: Mother’s Day — Join the American Legion Friday before Memorial Day: National Poppy Day® Auxiliary in wishing “Happy Mother’s Day” to all the — Read more about this special day on page 38.

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© 2021 Consumer Cellular Inc. Terms and Conditions subject to change. New service activation on approved credit. Cellular service is not available in all areas and is subject to system limitations. The prices shown here are the per-line costs for a monthly plan with two lines of service. They do not include any state or local taxes. All other products are trademarked by their respective manufacturers. Phones are limited to stock on hand. If you’re not completely satisfi ed within 30 days (data use is limited to 500MB) of activation of your service, cancel and pay nothing. For J.D. Power 2021 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards AARP member benefi ts are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its aŽ liates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider o’ ers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details. BEHIND THE scenes NOTES FROM NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

A Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families May 2021 Published by American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters Executive Director Kelly Circle Communications and Marketing Director Michael Butt Communications Manager Aaron Meyer Managing Editor Stephanie L. Holloway Webmaster Travis Perkins STILL SERVING VETERANS: The new Indiana Veterans Center, housed in the original Communications Senior Writer ALANHQ building in downtown Indianapolis (pictured), provides a modern one-stop facility Landa Bagley for veterans services, with a nod to the building’s historic past (photo: The American Legion). Communications Specialist – Writer Sara Fowler Warmer weather. With it comes In the case of Auxiliary magazine, Communications & Marketing Specialist a sense of renewal, an urgency of we conduct a reader survey every Jennifer Donovan Communications Coordinator nesting, and feelings of preparation. few years to gauge our readership Alexa Freeman We’re in full-on planning mode and ensure we’re planning and Contributing Writers over here at National Headquarters. publishing valuable content you can Sydney DeLong, Zac Felty The current American Legion use to support the ALA’s mission 2020-2021 National Officers National President Nicole Clapp Auxiliary administrative year and your unit. You can read more National Vice President Kathy Daudistel doesn’t end for a few more months, on page 48 about this reader survey. National Secretary Linda Boone but we’re already getting ready for If you’re one of the randomly National Treasurer Marybeth Revoir it. During this time of year, we sit in selected members to receive the ADVERTISING James G. Elliott Company Inc. numerous meetings with staff and questionnaire, please be sure to fill it NEW YORK (212) 588-9200 DETROIT (248) 530-0300 members of all levels — for the sole out. This is a membership magazine; CHICAGO (312) 236-4900 purpose of closing out one year and it’s all about you! LOS ANGELES (213) 624-0900 prepping for the next. Something that doesn’t involve ADDRESS CHANGE: Email name, previous address, new address National Convention — the a great deal of advance notice — and membership ID (9-digit number above official culmination of our year of military honor, remembrance, your name on magazine label) to: successes, accomplishments, and and respect. Those everyday [email protected] Contact Us: ALA National Headquarters goal reporting — is still in deep tributes are ingrained in us as 3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 planning stages, as things could Auxiliary members. But May is a (317) 569-4500 | www.ALAforVeterans.org email: [email protected] look a little different this year big month for us in terms of the American Legion Auxiliary Magazine is published because of the pandemic. But just official displays of admiration for quarterly by the American Legion Auxiliary because there are question marks our heroes. We distribute poppies with a yearly non-refundable allocation of $3.40 from membership dues. Letters, unsolicited (bright side: maybe not as many as to make sure everyone knows the articles and photographs are not guaranteed to be published or returned and may be edited. we had during this point last year!), symbolism behind the red . See www.ALAforVeterans.org/Media/Magazine- we still need to organize, strategize, We attend Memorial Day services Submissions for further details. Opinions expressed in this publication may not necessarily and outline. and vigils to honor the fallen. This represent policy or positions of the organization. What’s happening in your ALA? year, we also honor the veterans we Advertisements do not reflect endorsement How early do you plan? You’ll want lost to the COVID-19 virus. May by the organization. Non-member Subscriptions to remember that not everything their memories live on, and may we Send $15 (checks only) to address above, evolves around always have a place in our hearts for Attention: Accounting Payable to: National Treasurer, ALA an event. those who serve. The American Legion Family The American Legion (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org ALA ON THE GO Sons of The American Legion Auxiliary magazine is fully digital and available (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org/Sons for download at www.ALAforVeterans.org. American Legion Riders TOOLS & TIPS IN A CLICK (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org/Riders In addition, you’ll find expanded magazine content, valuable unit and department resources, plus downloadable templates, news releases, and other ALA promotional materials available on the ALA website 24/7. FROM OUR readers Thank you for promoting of the awards this art has won, it Auxiliary magazine was not an awarding experience We’d like to use this space to give for my husband to retrieve from a shout-out to Unit 374 Millard in our mailbox. Please: In the future, Neb., for creating a Facebook post use discrimination choosing your ALA ACADEMY LIVE announcing the February issue magazine cover choices for those to of Auxiliary, as well as the feature whom this digital art “hand” does Looking to Learn stories published inside. Thank you, not “reach” but is burned and buried Unit 374, for promoting the national in their hearts and minds and to this How to Help magazine and its valuable content to day can clearly hear many pleas to Veterans? your social media followers! God for compassion. Thank you. — Marla Rutherford, Illinois Watch the Next American Legion Auxiliary Unit 374 Millard, NE Editors’ response: Marla, we greatly Installments of the appreciate you for contacting us, and Are you in need of some positive reading Mission Delivery — material? Check out the American Legion for the care and concern you share Auxiliary February 2021 issue now arriving not only for your husband, but for Veterans Services in mailboxes. all veterans. Our editorial team felt Here are some interesting articles not to compelled to choose that artwork as a series: miss: representation of the healing power of Membership Recruitment Made Easier: art therapy for our veterans; it was not • Adaptive Sports Consider these helpful tips for finding, intentionally placed to cause harm or • Volunteering talking to, and signing up new members for emotional trauma. Regardless, your the American Legion Auxiliary (page 32-27) letter has given us cause to examine Opportunities with Veterans Showcase Heart Through our choices more closely in the future. Art ... from Home (pages 38-42) the VA You can also view and read it online: • PREVENTS http://bit.ly/39AzhoY. What happened to ‘the mitten’? I received the February 2021 (President’s Roadmap #AmericanLegionAuxiliary #alamagazine edition of the quarterly magazine. to Empower Veterans Well done. I bookmarked several and End a National actionable pages. BUT…on page 59, I came to an abrupt halt. Not Tragedy of Suicide) only does Michigan not have a star as a grant recipient, my Great Lake Start today by going State does not even have a complete to www.ALAforVeterans. presence! Where is “the mitten”? The org/ALA-Academy Upper Peninsula is represented, but the Lower Peninsula is not even a ghost. This area has veterans, veteran hospitals, retirement homes, and even a new Fisher House. Please restore us! Veterans see our magazine too — Karla Christenson, Michigan The cover page of Reaching Our Veterans through the Arts is a horrific Editors’ response: We are terribly sorry, sight for vets like my husband who Karla, and to all of our Michiganders! saw enough “hands” attached and Omitting the other half of your state detached reaching out to him in the from the map was an oversight on our Viet Nam Tet Offensive. Regardless part, and for that, we apologize.

WE WANT TO Email: [email protected] or send letters to: ALA National Headquarters HEAR FROM you 3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 Story and Photo Submissions: Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/Magazine for more details. JUNIOR As mentors, Junior Activities members leaders need to know how the program works and how to engage their Juniors in earning patches. For groups without Junior Activities, this is the easiest way to engage Junior members. This course addresses the questions leaders have and will help them feel confident in managing the ALA Patch Program.

Course 3: Juniors and The American Legion Family As mentors of our future leaders, we need to inspire Junior members to carry on the work of The American Legion Family. JUNIOR MENTOR TRAINING COURSES As Junior Activities leaders AVAILABLE ONLINE encourage Juniors to deliver the To help ALA Junior Activities need to prepare Juniors to lead the mission with the Legion Family, they leaders mentor the youngest Auxiliary ALA successfully by giving them will have experience and be acquainted members, National Headquarters useful life and leadership skills, and with the Family when they become created a series of ALA Academy helping them understand and support adult members. courses designed for those adults our mission. working with Juniors. Offered This course addresses some of the Course 4: ALA Junior Meetings through live webinars initially, the questions those leaders have and will Junior meetings are an opportunity recorded versions are available for help them feel capable of filling their to bring young members together viewing with your member login via roles successfully. Junior Activities as they share ideas, form lasting the ALA Academy online portal. leaders will learn how to instill an friendships, and have fun. As mentors, With a variety of topics offered, appreciation of and habit of service we know these meetings are also the webinars are sure to help adult in Junior members, so they will stay a place they can learn about the leaders become more knowledgeable involved as adult members. American Legion Auxiliary mission about ways to involve Juniors, which and programs. When we know how will help increase the ALA’s youth Course 2: Junior Patch Program to make Juniors’ unit, district, and membership numbers. The ALA Junior Patch Program department meetings more fun and has been a vital component of Junior meaningful, our Junior members will Course 1: Getting Started Activities for many years. As a continue their membership once they with Juniors fundamental program tool, it teaches reach adulthood, ensuring a strong Having effective adult leaders for our Juniors about the mission which future for the ALA. the Junior Activities program at the they are charged with carrying on: Get started on the Junior Mentor local level is crucial for the ALA. As helping veterans, military, and their Training Series courses today at www. mentors, our Junior Activities leaders families. ALAforVeterans.org/ALA-Academy.

GET JUNIORS INVOLVED In addition to Junior members, Family, volunteering in the community, THROUGH ALA PATCH the program can also easily include and serving our country’s veterans. PROGRAM Sons of The American Legion youth To learn more, visit www. After attending a webinar on the members. Patches can be earned ALAforVeterans.org, go to the ALA Patch Program, many Junior from kindergarten through 12th MyAuxiliary member portal, and then Activities leaders agreed — the Patch grade (18 years old). There are three Junior Member Activities. Program is the easiest way to get a levels divided by school grade level. Junior group started. Juniors and SAL members can Because of the flexibility, the earn a patch on their own or with a variety of patches that can be group. earned, and the wide range of ages Getting a Junior group started of kids who can participate, the through the Patch Program is a Patch Program is an ideal way to get great way to get younger members started with a Junior group in your involved in learning about the unit. Auxiliary and our American Legion

8 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org UNIQUE FUNDRAISER When making sweet pepper HELPS ARKANSAS UNIT jelly, Rush-Grantham said you In addition to supporting our have to be careful that it doesn’t veterans, military, and their families, boil over, or the sugar burns and Junior members often learn various leaves a sticky, gooey mess. skills through fundraising. “We only had that one time Juniors in Arkansas put their out of 10 to 12 batches,” she said. culinary skills to the test by making The family created an sweet pepper jelly to sell as an ALA assembly line, pre-rinsing fundraiser. the jars, boiling the lids, and After learning their local unit putting the jelly in jars through needed funds to continue the mission, a funnel. One of her daughters Melissa Rush-Grantham and her wrote “Sweet Pepper Jelly 2020” JELLY FOR FUNDRAISING: Melissa Rush- daughters got to work. on all of the jars. Grantham’s daughters, (from left) Ava- “I’m known at bake sales for sweet Then it was time to share the Grace, Mary-Claire, and Chloe-Belle, made pepper jelly, so I thought it would goodness. over 100 jars of sweet pepper jelly to raise be a good idea for them to learn that “We delivered them all over funds for the ALA. skill from beginning to end,” she said. the county,” Rush-Grantham said. “It Rush-Grantham said they plan “They did really well on it.” took two days.” on doing it again, perhaps on a larger Rush-Grantham and her three Overall, they made 125 jars in scale if the girls get some friends to daughters put in about 40 hours of the first batch and another 50 to 75 help out too. work. The peppers were grown in in the second round, totaling about For other groups of Juniors who their garden and then cut and put $500 raised. want to do fundraisers, she offers in the fridge. They had to purchase Rush-Grantham said it wasn’t advice. about 200 pounds of sugar at a difficult, just time-consuming. “Find what your niche is, and go Walmart, which is an hour away from “They were enthused and excited with that,” Rush-Grantham said. “For their hometown. about making this a priority,” she said some people, it’s making cookies; Once they got the supplies and about her girls. “I think they all felt some, it’s crocheting or painting — ingredients, they could begin the good about it. One thing can make a whatever you are good at to help out cooking process, which is delicate. big difference.” the American Legion Auxiliary.”

FUN, LEARNING PART of racing. In 2020, she finished nine between the two. OF JUNIOR RACE CAR times on the podium with four first- Leonard has been an ALA DRIVER’S MEMBERSHIP place finishes. member since 2015, eligible through Racing has always been a part “I pulled off my dream — my goal her grandfather, Bernard Boulay, a of Junior member Cassi Leonard’s of becoming the first female to win U.S. Army National Guard Vietnam family, starting with her grandfather. track championship for the DareDevil War veteran. For girls who are eligible During race season in 2018, a Division,” she recalled proudly. to join the ALA, Leonard encourages program came to her local track Although Leonard turns just 14 them to sign up. that’s geared toward giving disabled in May, she has experienced quite a “It can be fun, and you meet a lot veterans the opportunity to get few life lessons from the track already. of great people,” she said. behind the wheel of a race car. Like racing, her Junior membership Continuing to combine her love of “Being a huge fan of racing and a has also been full of learning. racing and veterans, in 2020, Leonard Junior member who loves being able “I’ve learned how sometimes the and others were successful in getting to help veterans, my mother, sister, smallest acts of kindness can mean a second accessible racing event at and I all volunteered to help at the the world to some, that many who the local speedway, along with newly racetrack behind the scenes with the have served struggle on many levels, developed adaptive racing equipment program and were welcomed with and some won’t ask for help even for virtual racing to reach even more open arms,” Leonard said. when they need it, how to properly disabled veterans. Leonard was a Eventually, Leonard got behind fold a flag, and how a formal meeting tester of the new setup. the wheel herself. is held,” she said. Through her Auxiliary Driving a Pontiac Sunfire and a Between race car driving and membership and racing, she’s living Chevrolet Cavalier (both manual) in her Junior membership, Leonard said out her dream of helping veterans and 2019, she competed in her first year there are similar life lessons competing behind the wheel.

Getting creative for Juniors: New this year, the ALA is offering a virtual experience like no other for Juniors with the Junior Jamboree. Not a meeting — this is a once-in-a-lifetime event. For more information, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 9 I AM THE ALA “A military death in combat — it is a unique and solemn death. And for any mom, the loss of a child is truly the deepest sorrow she can experience.” TONI GROSS spirit to be able to do for others. kindhearted, thoughtful, and selfless Being part of ALA Unit 5 is part of service to others. I am so grateful for this,” Gross said. my ALA unit. There are ALA units closer to What is/are your favorite ALA your home than Unit 5 in Tampa. event/outreach/activity? Why? Why did you choose Unit 5? Before COVID-19, our unit The primary reason is the was very involved in attending genuine care and concern of the ceremonies and memorial events officers and members toward all in the community. I enjoyed that — not just newer members like very much. But that all ended in me — but to everyone. At Unit 5 March 2020. Now, my favorite ALA meetings, there are no strangers. activity is our monthly Auxiliary Each of our unit officers takes time Crafts/Social Get-Together. It is a to greet and speak with everyone. time when we gather in the large Gross knows that pain. Her The monthly unit meetings are room at the post and work on many only son, U.S. Army Cpl. Frank R. like family gatherings without the programs to support our unit’s Gross, was killed in action July 16, family drama. National Security Program. We 2011, by a roadside IED during his Discuss your experience as an are careful to wear face masks and deployment in . He ALA member of Unit 5 in Tampa. maintain social distancing. Some had served a little more than a year After I joined Unit 5, our of the different activities we do are prior to his death, Gross explained. unit president at the time, cutting coupons, folding small flags Her Christian faith has been Rosemary Hamblin, often sent to be sent to our deployed troops helping her recover from that ache me encouraging personal emails along with snacks and goodies, and in her heart. Service to others — even as she was standing handcrafting cards for our veterans. also became a pathway to healing. by her husband Bill during his While we are doing something that In addition to her activities as cancer battle. Rosemary’s emails will benefit and bless others, we an ALA member and as part of seemed to reach me at just the also chat and share stories. During American Gold Star Mothers Inc., right time. They were well thought this time of limited and safe social Gross volunteers with several other out, heartfelt, uplifting messages. contact, I look forward to us getting veterans service organizations She would call too, sometimes together to relax and have fun while — including the USO at Tampa just to see how I was doing. serving others. International Airport and the She did this for all of our unit VAVS (U.S. Department of members. Rosemary passed away AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT: Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service) not too long ago. But her endless Unit 5 in Tampa, Fla. at James A. Haley Veterans’ grace, kindness, and courage ELIGIBILITY THROUGH: Hospital in Tampa. as an individual and as an ALA Frank R. Hankey, father “My son lives on in what I do. member lives on. She helped (U.S. Navy veteran) When I’m serving, I am getting foster Unit 5’s caring environment, YEARS IN THE ALA: 3 uplifted and blessed. It lifts my which encourages us to deliver

SHARE YOUR MEMBERSHIP STORY! Tell us about yourself and how you support the American Legion Auxiliary as a unit member who also loves the ALA’s mission of serving veterans, the military, and their families. Contact us at [email protected] or (317) 569-4500.

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American Legion Auxiliary members work tirelessly members for the past 50 years as a hallmark of the to help others. But what happens when they need Auxiliary’s legacy. help for themselves from a flood, wildfire, or being Don’t wait to get the help you need. If you’ve been laid off from a job? That’s where the Auxiliary affected by a natural disaster or financial crisis, please Emergency Fund comes in. The AEF has helped apply to the AEF at www.ALAforVeterans.org/aef or email your application to [email protected].

www.ALAforVeterans.org American Legion Auxiliary National Headuarters. All rights reserved. / Can You Help Us Help Our Members? As a member or supporter of the American Legion Auxiliary, are you a business owner? Are you employed by a company looking for new customers and wanting to make a difference in the lives of our veterans, military, and their families? ALA event sponsorship benefits: • Company mention on ALA website, event brochures, and ALA social media sites AA • Podium time at events • Networking opportunities at events • Company logo advertised at events • Handouts and company giveaways for event attendees PNHP For more information about sponsoring an ALA event or program, please visit PPNE www.ALAforVeterans.org/sponsorship-opportunities or email [email protected].

www.ALAforVeterans.org American Legion Auxiliary National Headuarters. All rights reserved. /

12 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IT’S ALL good GOOD NEWS. GOOD WORKS. GOOD TO SERVE.

“We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.” — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, German writer

Thousands of American Legion Auxiliary members have a sustained sense of purpose when it comes to the ALA — they love the mission, they honor their military heroes, or they just value the social aspect. But for some, the lack of engagement is a struggle, resulting in leaving the organization. In the August issue of Auxiliary, we’ll explore the ways you can keep the membership fire ignited — generating strong retention support for the mission. What personally helps you stay involved and enamored with the Auxiliary to make you renew your membership? Tell us at [email protected].

Above: Karen Suarez, a member of Unit 397 in Monterey Park, Calif., sorts items for the post home’s food drive, toy drive, and small business pop-up late last year. The post regularly collects and distributes food to veterans staying at U.S. Vets, a veteran short-term housing organization in Los Angeles (photo: Jeric Wilhelmsen).

www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 13 IT’S ALL good GOOD ADVICE FROM ALA MEMBERS

May is a month to honor those who served in the military. On Memorial Day, with special services and poppy distributions, ALA ACADEMY LIVE we’ll remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Tell us about the veteran you are honoring or memorializing. Looking to Learn “Honoring my son’s comrades. Fallen warriors in 2010 about the serving during Operation Enduring Freedom.” — Janet Lee Skerry, Virginia ALA Junior

Program? “We will be remembering and honoring Justin Pollard, and all those brave men and women who made the You can still ultimate sacrifice defending our country.” — Julie Fredensburg-Tyner, California register for the final Junior Mentor “I am proudly honoring my father, George T. Wooden. Training webinar: My father was drafted at the age of 18 into the Korean • ALA Junior War.” — Patricia Wooden, New York Meetings — May 6, 8 p.m. ET “My dad Nicholas E. Flores Jr., Air Force 1950-1963, my husband Curtis Ninmer, United States Miss a Junior Course? Navy 1990-1992, and my son Nicholas Flores, United Check out the recordings States Air Force 2001-2007.” in the ALA Academy. — Nicky Flores-Ninmer, Nevada Start today by going to www.ALAforVeterans. “We honor our father, Robert C. Lavee Sr. He was in the org/ALA-Academy Korean War with the Army. After he came back, he went civilian for a year and decided to make a lifetime career in the Air Force, where he entered the Vietnam War.” — Debi Graziano, Vermont

“My son, Pvt. Nicholas E. Aberle. He served in the Army National Guard from 2011-2013.” — Dawn Aberle, Iowa

“My grandfather, Edward J. Connelly. He attended the Paris Caucus in 1919. He established and was first commander of Cpl. Harry Nelson American Legion Post 63 in Wakefield, Mass.” — Kathy Connelly, Massachusetts

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @ALAforVeterans. You could be featured in an upcoming issue of Auxiliary.

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CSLB 983603 F13000002885 13HV08744300 IT’S ALL good adapted sport movement, specifically GOOD TO KNOW through wheelchair basketball. See Athletes in Action: Rising Phoenix and Tokyo Paralympic Games • Check out Rising Phoenix on Netflix. It’s a ground-breaking movie about the Paralympic Movement — elite level adapted sport. The documentary features Paralympians from across the world. Rising Phoenix tells the extraordinary story of the Paralympic Games. From the rubble of WWII to the third biggest sporting ADAPTED SPORT: INJURED VETERANS event on the planet, along the way STAY ACTIVE DURING PANDEMIC sparking a global movement which Guest Column Written by Dawna As we move further into 2021, we continues to change the way the world Callahan, Founder, All In Sport are pleased to see that many adapted thinks about disability, diversity, Consulting sport programs are starting to offer and human potential. Team USA Despite the disruptions in our lives in-person sport opportunities around athletes featured in the film include in 2020 due to the global pandemic, the country. Sport leadership has wheelchair racer Tatyana McFadden ALA National President Nicole Clapp worked diligently to create detailed and Para Archer Matt Stutzman. continues to place her focus on the safety protocols. Keeping program • The Tokyo Paralympic Games positive impact adapted sport has on participants safe and healthy, were originally scheduled to take injured veterans, their caregivers, and including injured veterans, is of the place in 2020, but due to the the larger community. utmost importance. There certainly pandemic, they’re now scheduled The past year has certainly been has been a collective sigh of relief for Aug. 24 – Sept. 5, 2021. For the challenging not being able to get out around the country when we see first time, NBCUniversal will give and engage in regular adapted sport more injured veterans receiving a primetime spot to the Paralympic opportunities. The good news is that vaccines. This brings hope they may Games, with more than 200 hours adapted sport leaders are great at be able to go outdoors again and meet of coverage on its platforms. At the adapting. It’s something they do every up with friends to work out together, 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, 35 U.S. day when implementing adapted be physically active, keep their minds military veterans represented their sport programs. When our country sharp, and enjoy the fresh air. began to shut down, many adapted sport programs across the country Learn more about the adapted pivoted quickly. They began offering a and paralympic sport movement variety of virtual sport opportunities Wheels of Courage and loaning equipment to veterans The adapted sport movement in who did not have their own the U.S. is forever indebted to the specialized adaptive sport equipment injured veteran community and the at home. The goal of these virtual visionary World War II veterans who adapted sport programs was to keep were determined to stay active post- participants engaged and moving, injury. These brave veterans directed even if it meant working out in their their drive and passion toward home and using laundry detergent continuing the pursuit of sport, country again, wearing the Stars and containers as dumbbells or signing competition, and camaraderie. Stripes and competing at the highest up for a virtual fitness challenge. This Wheels of Courage (www.ddavisla. level of sport. Look for more details past year was time to get creative and com) is an enlightening book that on how to watch the Paralympic adapt so that injured veterans were shares the challenges WWII veterans Games at www.teamusa.org and able to stay physically active. faced when returning home from the www.paralympic.org. If 2020 taught us anything, it’s war with a life-changing injury. The About Dawna Callahan: A perseverance and resilience — skills book examines the desires of injured competitive wheelchair racer, Callahan that injured veterans have honed for veterans wanting to stay active and has been involved with adaptive sport many years post-injury. their vital role in building the national professionally for more than 20 years.

Read more about adapted sport — Dawna Callahan wrote about the origins of adapted sport, its evolution, and the involvement of Veterans Affairs for our February 2020 issue of Auxiliary magazine. You can find it at www.ALAforVeterans.org/magazine.

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You’ll enjoy ongoing for any reason. assistance to help you achieve the Questions? best hearing experience with your FOR THE LOWEST PRICE CALL! hearing aids! 1-888-238-5618 HearClear hearing aids have been clinically proven to show Use Coupon Code: AX15 signifi cant improvement in speech understanding. *Only $199 Each When You Buy A Pair! (University of Memphis, 2018) (Coupon Code & Price Valid For A Limited Time Only) Call Us! Not available in the state of Washington TM FDA US Company REGISTERED Owned And Aff ordable Quality Since 1996! Operated Visit and Save: www.AdvancedHearing.com/AX15 IT’S ALL good EDUCATING YOUTH WHILE GOOD WORKS BY ALA MEMBERS PROMOTING PATRIOTISM THROUGH ART Minnesota military Dayna Beyer is always looking men and women. for new ways to spread patriotism. War Stories features The Ohio department historian veterans’ biographies and member of American Legion from the Civil War to Auxiliary Unit 535 taught a “sip- today. and-paint” class as a fun educational “Maybe they will activity for youth in the community. go through it and look A volunteer at another local for family or friends,” veteran organization, Love Our said Simondet. “It’s Heroes, Beyer offered hosting a all about discussion, painting class, with the paintings telling stories, going to veterans and the proceeds and getting the benefitting veterans. conversation going “A lot of people were shut in because it’s not always due to the pandemic; the post was DONATING BOOKS FOR A CAUSE (from left): Monticello easy for our veterans closed down for a little bit, and a lot Middle School media specialist Kari Green accepts a to tell their stories.” of veterans couldn’t go out of their donation of books from Monticello ALA member Lynne After a unit homes, so we wanted to lift up their Dahl-Fleming and Auxiliary President Mary Simondet. meeting, Auxiliary spirits,” said Beyer. MINNESOTA UNIT SHARES 260 members ordered the books and Located a block away from the VETERANS’ STORIES called the middle school librarian post home in Bellville, Love Our WRITTEN BY LEGIONNAIRE to get more information about Heroes is a thrift store and coffee American Legion Auxiliary donating. The unit decided it was shop where all profits are donated members continue the mission a great idea because they knew the back to veterans. The coffee shop to honor veterans and educate great work the kids do to honor was closed because of COVID, the community in creative ways veterans during Veterans Day and making it the perfect opportunity despite the COVID-19 pandemic. throughout the year. to host a socially distant paint class Looking for ways to give back to the With proceeds going to the community, Monticello Unit 260 Children & Youth program and donated three history books filled representing The American Legion with Minnesota veterans’ stories to Family by donating a book written their local middle school. The series by a Legionnaire, all members of the of three books, titled War Stories, is Monticello unit contributed to the written by Minnesota Legionnaire Al donation. ALA Unit 260 member Zdon. Lynn Flemming created an ALA “The Monticello community label to attach on the inside of each just does a beautiful job honoring book as a way to show the students our veterans, and so it was just a where they came from. The books perfect fit to donate those books display timeless photos showing there — they are all amazing stories,” where and when these veterans said ALA Unit 260 President Mary served. Simondet. “We have a great group of HELPING THE COMMUNITY: Florida Veterans in the Monticello volunteers, and we are always ALA Unit 383 members assemble gifts community partner with the school looking at ways we can give back to for local nursing home residents. corporation for various projects the community and our veterans,” VETERAN AUXILIARY throughout the year, so this was a said Simondet. “I think the books are GROUPS WORK TOGETHER way for Unit 260 to continue those going to be a great asset for both the TO SERVE COMMUNITY veterans’ stories for years to come Monticello community, the school, The COVID-19 pandemic and help spread awareness. The and the Legion. We’re happy we has changed the way of living books will be at students’ fingertips could do this small little token — we for everyone, especially those in for possible history projects or just knew it would touch a lot of nursing homes. With the thought of an inspiring history lesson from people’s lives.” isolation in mind, Florida American Legion Auxiliary Unit 383 worked Good works to share? Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/magazine for details. with other veteran support

18 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org with limited seating. interactions and open “We had 6-year-olds through discussion among 12-year-olds attend,” said Beyer. painters, allowing the “The painting theme was Valentines, kids to be creative but the first thing they were to do and connect with one was paint a rustic American flag, another. After the and the American flag paintings Q&A and introduction, were then presented to veterans in everyone painted an the community.” American flag while Continuing the ALA’s mission, Beyer walked around to Beyer had students honor veterans spark conversation. by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, “We are a very CREATING ART FOR VETERANS: Ohio Auxiliary Unit patriotic community, and 535 member Dayna Beyer organized and taught a “sip- Beyer was impressed we are really proud of the and-paint” educational art class for children in Bellville. that many of them were able veterans we have,” said for the local kids, Beyer added a to answer questions Beyer. “I think it’s up to us to get out second painting that was Valentine’s and recognize the relationship there and take the initiative to help Day themed. The canvases came between veterans and the flag. educate the kids … because who with their own easels for veterans else would do it?” to have a place to display the kids’ which was followed by a Q&A After finding a poppy sip- artwork. Beyer and her husband about the history of the flag, its and-paint idea in the ALA Poppy donated the frames and paints, meaning, and symbolism. Mainly Program Facebook group, Beyer and the children paid a small fee teaching children the basics of the decided to incorporate the that included lunch. The rest of the American flag, Beyer was impressed American flag instead to help spread proceeds went back to the veterans that many of them were able to patriotism during a time that needs fund at Love Our Heroes. answer questions and recognize the it the most. There were easy step- “We had four kids ask if they relationship between veterans and by-step instructions to follow on could give their paintings to their the flag. hosting a painting class. grandparent or great-grandparent, Most sip-and-paints are Wanting to spread patriotic and the rest were given to veterans unstructured for more social awareness and have a fun-filled class in the community,” said Beyer.

Auxiliaries to donate Valentine’s Day Legion meeting, the post wanted to added Browne. “We put about five and Easter gift baskets as a way to help contribute by donating half the items in each bag, including items bring some joy to those who needed it. cost of all gift bags. Thrilled with the like notepads and pens, because a lot “We looked for ways to help support, Browne did all the shopping of them like to write — so they could veterans and the elderly during in a few trips to the store and with write a note to one another or their this time that has been hindered by the help of Amazon Prime. It cost families.” COVID and the inability to visit these each of the Auxiliaries less than Some of the Auxiliary members groups of people,” said ALA Unit 383 $130, and they were able to make 230 designed homemade quilts, napkins, member Kathy Browne. “I started Valentine’s Day gift bags for three and booties as a special gift for those thinking about these poor people who may have needed extra love. The in the nursing homes and I knew “Some of the Auxiliary Valentine’s Day gifts also included they are isolated, so I was feeling regular toiletries and necessities particularly bad for them and wanted members designed homemade like toothpaste, body wash, lotion, to help.” quilts, napkins, and booties shampoo, and conditioner. Along Many residents in the town’s three as a special gift for those who with Browne, Auxiliary 383 members local nursing homes are veterans may have needed extra love.” Elaine McDermott, Char Zelnak, or spouses of veterans, so the gifts Connie Pruss, and Mary Jane helped continue to honor veterans Dalphond put together each gift with while giving back to the community. different nursing homes, including care before dropping them off at Browne and other members of Unit extra bags for new residents or guests. living facilities in the community. 383 partnered with Military Order “We included ‘Happy Valentine’s “Sometimes you have to be of the Cootie Auxiliary 25 (an honor Day’ notes from the Auxiliaries, extra creative with projects,” added degree of the Veterans of Foreign decks of cards, a little bit of candy Browne. “We are all here to serve Wars) to organize a Valentine’s Day hearts, and things like coloring veterans and support the local gift project. books, crayons, sudoku, crosswords nursing homes, so hopefully this can After bringing up the idea in a — just something for them to do,” be an idea for other Auxiliary units.” www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 19 IT’S ALL good when you can. When you need help, GOOD FUNDRAISING you ask. They can’t always be there, they don’t always have the resources, but it’s Breakthrough no big deal to ask. Start thinking about how you can engage your unit/post community and neighbors. Be ready to reach out when Joint Pain an opportunity presents itself. You need to engage them. There are several easy ways you can Discovery reach out in your community: • A local business is having a Doctor’s Formula Eases Joint Issues Veterans Day sale. Ask if they would like a POW/MIA table set up during their event. Same for Memorial Day: By S.A. Nickerson, Health Correspondent Top Doc Says Don’t Settle for 11 Powerful, Hand-Picked Constant Joint Symptoms Ingredients Ask about displaying poppies. Make f you’re over 40 or 50, odds are you suf- LIMBEX RELATIONSHIPS MATTER: Unit 62 in Peoria, Ariz., hosted a Veterans Day event Renowned holistic doctor David In addition to AprèsFlex, contains sure the display includes your unit/post fer pain or sti ness in at least one of your with its local Chick-fil-A. Pictured are ALA member Amy Kloszewski, police officer Brownstein, M.D., decided to search for 10 more hard-working ingredients: Ibody’s 230 joints. Roy Minton Jr., and Alison Bosen of Chick-fil-A. name. new natural strategies to help soothe » Glucosamine — keeps joints lubricat- In fact, over 21 million Americans suf- • Provide poppies to the mayor and comfort aching joints. ed and promotes healthy cartilage fer from “wear and tear” concerns such as: FUNDRAISING IS ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS when you hear that he/she is attending a • Joint pain or stiffness After seeing so many patients take » Chondroitin — provides building Fundraising is not “taking from community leaders? Do you make school assembly or other public event. • Restricted motion in joints handfuls of expensive but low-quality blocks for new cartilage and supports the rich to give to the poor.” It’s not sure the community sees the good • Offer free membership to • Grinding, crackling, or popping joint supplements, Dr. Brownstein for- joint mobility walking in off the street asking for work you do? government leaders who qualify. • Mild joint swelling or warmth mulated LIMBEX®. » Bromelain — improves blood fl ow to a donation. If the idea of asking for People want to help those who • Ask for a proclamation to be read • Enlargement of joints This advanced joint support formu- speed up healing in damaged joints money makes you break into a cold are in need. But no matter how “rich” at a City Council meeting. Have your These issues can make it di cult to la contains 11 premium ingredients to » Holy Basil — inhibits COX enzymes climb stairs, clean house, do yardwork, en- sweat, then maybe you need another they are, they can’t help everyone. members attend wearing branded improve and maintain healthy joints, that cause joint irritation joy hobbies, or even just keep up with the cartilage, and connective tissue. way to approach it. They must, and will, be selective. If clothing. grandkids. » Turmeric — contains curcumin to Step back for a moment. Let’s you want to be first in line to receive • Establish a newsletter and make Many doctors tell you pain is just part ApresFlex® Starts Helping help reduce pain, swelling, and sti ness pretend you just baked a big batch sure you include community leaders of growing older. They say you should Joints in as Little as 5 Days! » Green Tea Leaf Extract — puts the of cookies and you want to share In the past five years, and local media in the distribution. learn to “live with it.” Boswellia has been used for 2,000 years to brakes on pain-producing compounds that irritate joints them with a neighbor. Who do you they have raised over $60,000 • Follow, like, share, and comment help aching joints. However, traditional » pick? on social media pages of local Joint Pain Sufferers boswellia is poorly absorbed. Pomegranate Fruit Extract — blocks from outside sources. Fortunately, scientists developed a a specifi c protein that causes cartilage • The neighbor you don’t really businesses and leaders. Love LIMBEX new next-generation boswellia extract — breakdown know — they’ve lived there a while, the batch of cookies, your neighbors Always show appreciation for those “Had bone on bone in right knee with pain on AprèsFlex® — that improves upon the » Piperine — helps reduce cartilage de- but you never really cross paths with need to know who you are, what you who help. Post on your social media all movements. Taking LIMBEX for 2 years. bioavailability of traditional boswellia. struction them. do, and why you matter! pages, notify local media, inform the No more pain and great fl exibility at age 88.” Here’s why Dr. Brownstein made it » Vitamin C and Vitamin E — both • The neighbor who is so busy mayor’s office, and send a thank-you. It Edward R. — MA the fl agship ingredient in LIMBEX: Après- guard against joint-damaging free rad- all the time, they barely even wave Let’s look at another scenario: doesn’t matter if their contribution was “LIMBEX has reduced the joint pain I was Flex starts balancing the infl ammatory icals at you. Your neighbor asks you to pick big or small; you never know where the experiencing, especially in my hands.” response in your joints in as little as fi ve The Simple Solution for • The neighbor who came over up their newspaper when they are on next contribution will come from. Joe H. — Fl days! Joint Health Support last week and helped you get your vacation. Of course you are going to Of course, none of this happens “The pain in my hip is all but gone. I can get And as good as AprèsFlex is for your LIMBEX now makes it easy to help support mower started. do that. Later, you need help moving overnight. It takes deliberate and up from a chair and walk without limping.” joints, Dr. Brownstein didn’t stop there. and soothe your joints. Get back to living That might seem obvious, but a couch before the carpet cleaners consistent effort. Carol T. — TX He went on to create an all-natural joint your life again with less pain and sti ness. health “multi-tasker.” Try LIMBEX today! the real question is how is your come. Is it easier or harder to ask These actions have paid off for “I am 77 years old. My knee pain is com- American Legion Auxiliary unit your neighbor for help now that you American Legion Auxiliary Unit 62 in pletely gone, allowing me to be very active ® or post home perceived by your have helped them? Are they more Peoria, Ariz. In the past five years, they again. I love LIMBEX!” Gena S. — CA RISK-FREE Trial of LIMBEX community? Does the community or less likely to happily come over to have raised over $60,000 from outside “I have only used it for a week and my hands We at Medix Select, one of the nation’s premier nutraceutical companies, are sure you’ll love , too. That’s why we’re offering at large know who you are and help you? sources. stopped aching. I am thrilled. Thanks!” LIMBEX Andrew P. — CT a risk-free trial supply at NO COST. That’s a $44.94 value! Just cover what you do? Do they see your post In this scenario, you developed a — By Marge Christianson, a small shipping fee of $4.95, that’s all. “This has made me virtually free of joint as more than a bar? Do you make relationship with your neighbor. You American Legion Auxiliary Unit 62 You’ll also receive Dr. Brownstein’s detailed special report “A Doctor’s pain. My husband has a severe neck issue time to reach out and assist local now automatically help each other member DR. BROWNSTEIN Guide to Happy, Healthy Joints at Any Age” as a FREE bonus gift (a and notices improvement as well.” $20 value). Doris W. — SC Did you know the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation provides grants for such things as a local Veterans Creative “Wonderful! When I don’t take it, my knees Toll Free: (877) 438-9311 Arts Festival or promoting the Auxiliary while working the mission? Learn how to apply for a grant to fund your kill me. I absolutely love LIMBEX!” mission-focused project by watching a recording of ALA Academy Live — American Legion Auxiliary Foundation Grant Caridad W. — MD Online: LimbexJoint.com/Legion Panel. The recording is available in the MyAuxiliary member portal at www.ALAforVeterans.org. Just go to Meetings “LIMBEX has reduced pain in my aching and Trainings and click ALA Academy. Learn more about ALA Academy on page 29 of this issue of Auxiliary. knees, elbow, hips to almost nothing.” *Trial offer requires enrollment in SmartShip program. See Website for details. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This Diane H. — TX product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure,or prevent any disease. Testimonials are from actual customers who have used our products. Testimonials refl ect their experience but may not be representative of all those who will use our product. 20 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org

Limbex_AmLegionAux_0621_7.75x10.5.indd 1 3/10/21 9:25 AM Breakthrough Joint Pain Discovery Doctor’s Formula Eases Joint Issues

By S.A. Nickerson, Health Correspondent Top Doc Says Don’t Settle for 11 Powerful, Hand-Picked Constant Joint Symptoms Ingredients f you’re over 40 or 50, odds are you suf- Renowned holistic doctor David In addition to AprèsFlex, LIMBEX contains fer pain or sti ness in at least one of your Brownstein, M.D., decided to search for 10 more hard-working ingredients: Ibody’s 230 joints. new natural strategies to help soothe » Glucosamine — keeps joints lubricat- In fact, over 21 million Americans suf- and comfort aching joints. ed and promotes healthy cartilage fer from “wear and tear” concerns such as: • Joint pain or stiffness After seeing so many patients take » Chondroitin — provides building • Restricted motion in joints handfuls of expensive but low-quality blocks for new cartilage and supports • Grinding, crackling, or popping joint supplements, Dr. Brownstein for- joint mobility • Mild joint swelling or warmth mulated LIMBEX®. » Bromelain — improves blood fl ow to • Enlargement of joints This advanced joint support formu- speed up healing in damaged joints These issues can make it di cult to la contains 11 premium ingredients to » Holy Basil — inhibits COX enzymes climb stairs, clean house, do yardwork, en- improve and maintain healthy joints, that cause joint irritation joy hobbies, or even just keep up with the cartilage, and connective tissue. grandkids. » Turmeric — contains curcumin to Many doctors tell you pain is just part ApresFlex® Starts Helping help reduce pain, swelling, and sti ness of growing older. They say you should Joints in as Little as 5 Days! » Green Tea Leaf Extract — puts the learn to “live with it.” Boswellia has been used for 2,000 years to brakes on pain-producing compounds help aching joints. However, traditional that irritate joints Joint Pain Sufferers boswellia is poorly absorbed. » Pomegranate Fruit Extract — blocks Fortunately, scientists developed a a specifi c protein that causes cartilage Love LIMBEX new next-generation boswellia extract — breakdown “Had bone on bone in right knee with pain on AprèsFlex® — that improves upon the » Piperine — helps reduce cartilage de- all movements. Taking LIMBEX for 2 years. bioavailability of traditional boswellia. struction No more pain and great fl exibility at age 88.” Here’s why Dr. Brownstein made it » Vitamin C and Vitamin E — both Edward R. — MA the fl agship ingredient in LIMBEX: Après- guard against joint-damaging free rad- “LIMBEX has reduced the joint pain I was Flex starts balancing the infl ammatory icals experiencing, especially in my hands.” response in your joints in as little as fi ve The Simple Solution for Joe H. — Fl days! Joint Health Support “The pain in my hip is all but gone. I can get And as good as AprèsFlex is for your LIMBEX now makes it easy to help support up from a chair and walk without limping.” joints, Dr. Brownstein didn’t stop there. and soothe your joints. Get back to living Carol T. — TX He went on to create an all-natural joint your life again with less pain and sti ness. health “multi-tasker.” Try LIMBEX today! “I am 77 years old. My knee pain is com- pletely gone, allowing me to be very active again. I love LIMBEX!” Gena S. — CA RISK-FREE Trial of LIMBEX® “I have only used it for a week and my hands We at Medix Select, one of the nation’s premier nutraceutical stopped aching. I am thrilled. Thanks!” companies, are sure you’ll love LIMBEX, too. That’s why we’re offering Andrew P. — CT a risk-free trial supply at NO COST. That’s a $44.94 value! Just cover a small shipping fee of $4.95, that’s all. “This has made me virtually free of joint You’ll also receive Dr. Brownstein’s detailed special report “A Doctor’s pain. My husband has a severe neck issue DR. BROWNSTEIN Guide to Happy, Healthy Joints at Any Age” as a FREE bonus gift (a and notices improvement as well.” $20 value). Doris W. — SC “Wonderful! When I don’t take it, my knees Toll Free: (877) 438-9311 kill me. I absolutely love LIMBEX!” Caridad W. — MD Online: LimbexJoint.com/Legion “LIMBEX has reduced pain in my aching knees, elbow, hips to almost nothing.” *Trial offer requires enrollment in SmartShip program. See Website for details. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This Diane H. — TX product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure,or prevent any disease. Testimonials are from actual customers who have used our products. Testimonials refl ect their experience but may not be representative of all those who will use our product.

Limbex_AmLegionAux_0621_7.75x10.5.indd 1 3/10/21 9:25 AM IT’S ALL good CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS CORNER

CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS ADVICE - Will members be staying in a hotel? - Are there restrictions concerning amenities such as food service or elevator capacity? • Quorum. Attendance might be down; will you be able to achieve a quorum for voting? Whether an electronic meeting or an in-person meeting, you must meet quorum. Look in your bylaws for your convention quorum. • If we cannot have a convention, can we change our officers? Look in your bylaws for the wording on ‘CAN WE HAVE A DEPARTMENT CONVENTION?’ the term lengths. For example, at the It seems like such a simple virtual membership meetings national level, our national officers question, but as we quickly state: “If provided in the articles of serve “until their successors are elected,” discovered, the answer might incorporation or bylaws, a member and elections occur during National require some professional help. of a corporation may participate in Convention. In addition, does the ALA National Headquarters an annual or a regular meeting of election take place at the convention? consulted with our professional the members by or through the use If it is tied to your convention, then parliamentarian, Chris Dickey, for of any means of communication by one option might be that the officers guidance. which all members participating choose to resign (just not all at once!). The following is an account of the may simultaneously hear each other Then you would look in your bylaws process and resources we utilized during the meeting. A member for the process of filling vacancies. to determine if, when, and in what of a corporation participating Many department bylaws involve the form our 2021 National Convention in a meeting by this means is department executive committee in the would be held. By sharing our process of filling vacancies. process, we hope to answer questions In addition, does • Can your Department Executive that need to be answered in order the election take place Committee meet electronically? to determine what your department Consult your state nonprofit statutes convention might look like this year. at the convention? regarding board of directors meetings. • Look at your department Remember: These are different from bylaws to see how the time and considered to be present in person statutes regarding membership place of your convention is at the meeting.” [IC 23-17-10-1(g) meetings. In Indiana, our state laws determined. Is your meeting tied emphasis added] Since there is allow boards to meet if all board to The American Legion? At the no provision in the ALA national members can simultaneously hear national level, the ALA National bylaws allowing for electronic each other if it is not prohibited in the Convention “shall be held annually membership meetings, we cannot bylaws. at the same time and place as the hold a virtual National Convention. If you’re confused, you’re not convention of The American Legion.” • Has your state government alone. Membership organizations There’s no flexibility there. However, issued an emergency order nationwide are trying to answer if your Constitution & Bylaws have that would allow electronic these same questions. National a clause that begins with “or,” you membership meetings even if Headquarters strongly recommends might have some flexibility. an organization’s bylaws do not that departments consult a • Look at your state’s laws on provide for them? Some state professional registered parliamentarian electronic nonprofit membership governments have done so, although or an attorney to assist in interpreting meetings. These are different from Indiana has not. department bylaws on these complex board of directors meetings. The • If you can meet only in issues. Visit the National Association American Legion Auxiliary national person, what should you consider? of Parliamentarians website at www. organization is incorporated in - What are the local parliamentarians.org to find a Indiana, and its state laws regarding restrictions on gathering sizes? professional in your area.

22 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org SPECIAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS RATIFIED AT MID-YEAR NEC MEETING We were overwhelmed by the qualified applicants for these special committees. After an unbiased and objective process, 16 members were chosen from 300 applicants to serve on the Code of Ethical Conduct Review Committee and the Inclusion & Diversity Committee. Meet our impressive members!

CODE OF ETHICAL CONDUCT Erin Bruni, JD Karla Washington REVIEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS: (Pa.) is a municipal (Ga.) is an HR/ Lauralee Gooch, investigations operations manager. JD (Calif.) is manager for the She serves on the a regulatory City of Pittsburgh. board of the Morgan compliance lawyer She is a certified internal affairs Bay Youth Village and the NAACP. and graduate of investigator/supervisor. Stanford Law School. She has Deidre Wilson extensive experience in code of Sarah Fry, JD (Ohio) has over 25 conduct policy development, (Texas) is an years of experience investigations, and whistleblower associate general as a corporate policies. counsel. She brings compliance risk extensive experience management executive. She is Jacqui Hood, JD in corporate governance, code of certified in fostering inclusion and (Vt.) is a justice conduct policies, and nonprofit diversity through Yale School of of the peace and organization bylaws. Management. graduate of Yale Law School. She INCLUSION & DIVERSITY Yvonne Oliver brings over 26 years of experience SPECIAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS: (Md.) has 20 years with boards of directors, codes of Mariann Cheney of experience conduct, and bylaws. (N.Y.) is the director in training and of public relations development, Dr. Susan Neville, and development including diversity and inclusion PHD, RN, CDP, for a nonprofit training. CADDCT, AACN serving people with disabilities. She Wharton Fellow volunteers regularly as a lobbyist Lorraine (N.Y.) is a nursing and received national awards from Boucher (R.I.) professor and retired university the Pancreatic Cancer Action has an educational nursing administrator with Network and Society of Surgeons of background in considerable experience with the Alimentary Tract. sociology. She boards, ethical codes, and bylaws. has instructed college courses on Dr. Teresa Nuñez ethnic and race relations, social Bethany Goers, (Calif.) is a clinical stratification, and social justice. SHRM-SCP (Ohio) psychologist is a chief human and professor Dr. Leslie Rist, resources officer. She of nursing. EdD (Calif.) is a brings over 25 years She volunteers with many graduate professor of experience in government and organizations, including American of leadership and nonprofit boards, compliance, and Red Cross Disaster Preparedness, HR management. ethics reviews and investigations. homeless outreach, and at the She is the founding member of the Navajo Nation. Northwest Human Rights Coalition. Ann Rehbein (Iowa) brings experience Kaylene Khosla Claire Gallagher not only with the (Colo.) participated Moore (Va.) is a ALA national in ALA Girls State military spouse, organization, but and ALA Girls behavior specialist, also as the former executive director Nation. She is a and promotes of a nationwide veterans nonprofit law student at U.C. Berkeley and is inclusion of individuals with organization, the Quilts of Valor involved with the Diverse Attorney disabilities. She was a former ALA Foundation. Pipeline Program. Junior member and now is a mentor.

To learn more about the selection process, check out our story on the ALA blog at www.ALAforVeterans.org. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 23 IT’S ALL good GOOD MEMBERSHIP

The American Legion Family American Legion American Legion ® American Legion American Legion Auxiliary Auxiliary National Poppy Day Auxiliary Auxiliary

Homeless Defending liberty & freedom Support the Youth Join uS in SupportinG veteran? of our military our Veterans The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a Join us in raising awareness of the special VeterAnS DAY 24/7 hotline with trained counselors for homeless challenges facing military youth. Together, we can and Servicemembers veterans, at-risk veterans and their families at support programs to strengthen military families. For more information on the American Legion Auxiliary’s honoring All Who Served Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Program, call your local Auxiliary unit at For more information on the American Legion Auxiliary’s For more information on the American Legion Auxiliary’s Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Program, 1-877-4AID VET Educational Outreach, call your local Auxiliary unit at visit www.ALAforVeterans.org. For more information on the American Legion Auxiliary’s 317-569-4500

Pictured are Iowa American Legion members Gary Tift, Ida Grove Post 61; Marlin Tillman, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Program, 317-569-4500 Shenandoah Post 88; Andy Henderson, Shenandoah Post 88; Richard Bullock, or make a donation at www.ALAforVeterans.org. Kellogg Post 355; and Ken Streck, Ida Grove Post 61. visit www.ALAforVeterans.org. or make a donation at www.ALAforVeterans.org.

© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 02/2021

© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 12/2013 © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 12/2013 © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 12/2013 © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 12/2013

MARKETING POSTERS: Various ALA posters are available for download as print-ready PDF files at www.ALAforVeterans.org. BRING FUN, FRESH APPROACHES, AND DIFFERENT VOICES TO UNIT MEMBERSHIP TASKS Has collecting dues become a set up a membership team and invite fellow unit members put up ALA snooze? Has getting membership other unit members to be part of the posters in various public places, where renewals and rejoins become a team?” said Shirley Frederick, ALA permitted. The posters should include chore that’s a bore? national Membership Committee membership eligibility criteria, a local It doesn’t have to be that way. Northwestern Division chair. contact name and phone number Yes, these are important tasks. Yes, Need some ideas on how to make or email for someone interested in responsible behavior is required. But membership activities fun? How about talking about the ALA, plus a website that doesn’t mean these activities some good-natured competition address where more information can’t be fun. Nor do these tasks have to liven up things and increase the about the Auxiliary can be found. to be a one-person activity. chances of getting positive results? The competition comes into play Shake things up a bit. Make Frederick offers an example. when you set fun rules. For example: membership activities a fun project Shake things up a bit. Make The person whose posters are that can be done along with others mentioned by three new members by a in your unit. In addition to having membership activities a fun certain date wins the competition. You a good time while doing something project that can be done along can offer a small prize or trophy. Or the positive for the unit, you may also with others in your unit. winner simply gets bragging rights — boost your chances of meeting all in good-natured fun. your membership goals. There “Make a list of unpaid members — Be creative. Find ways to make would be additional people, with the ones who have not paid for at least these important tasks enjoyable varying approaches, making the the past two years — and a list of those and involve others in your unit. Try calls to remind members about who are eligible but have not joined. something new. If it doesn’t work or no dues payments and renewals, and Ask members to volunteer to help one is interested in participating, ditch encouraging former members to with one of the two lists. See if you that idea and come up with something rejoin. Changing things up in this can get several members for each list. else. Maybe you can seek ideas and way can be just what’s needed to get Thank and celebrate everyone who input from others in your unit who more people paying their dues and participates. We all have a part to play, are interested in membership matters. renewing or resuming their ALA and we should all be recognized for You might be pleasantly surprised by membership. the work we do,” Frederick said. the results when you add a little fun, “Your unit can have a Another competitive twist to involve others in the membership membership chairman. But why not membership activities is to have your activities, and shake things up a bit.

MORE MEMBERSHIP SUGGESTIONS and this can be an opportunity to involve others in your post Signing up new members is a must for the American Legion home’s unit, post, and squadron. Growing the Legion Family Auxiliary, The American Legion, and Sons of The American will continue to be a priority in the years ahead. The good news Legion. It’s a wise idea for Legionnaires, Sons, and Auxiliary is that recruiting for the entire Legion Family is not difficult. members to recruit for one another, as well as the organizations Tips and suggestions about this can be found in this issue of to which each person belongs. There is strength in numbers, Auxiliary, beginning on page 32.

24 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org ADVAHEARING NCED DIGITAAID L TECHNOLOGY Now Rechargeable!

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DOCTOR DESIGNED | AUDIOLOGIST TESTED | FDA REGISTERED Proudly assembled in America! IT’S ALL good GOOD VIEWING, GOOD FUN WATCH, LEARN, GROW TED began in 1984 as a conference TED is a nonprofit devoted to WITH TED TALKS where Technology, Entertainment, sharing ideas for people who seek a The long year of 2020 gave many and Design converged, and today deeper understanding of the world. people a chance to embrace their covers almost all topics — from They believe in the power of ideas individuality during isolation and science to business to global issues — to change attitudes, lives, and the quarantine. While not being able to in more than 100 languages.” world. TED is a global community socialize and indulge in everyday Looking for positivity and with a mission to spread ideas, share events, virtual learning activities like happiness? Watch What Makes a knowledge, and inspire millions. TED Talks were universal hits with Good Life? Lessons from the Longest everyone staying at home. Study on Happiness presented by If you aren’t familiar with or psychiatrist Robert Waldinger, who JOKES have never listened to a TED Talk, is the director of a 75-year-old study What did the affectionate crayons look up the most viewed TED Talk on adult development. He uses say to one another? videos to get a sense of what these his knowledge, wisdom, and data I LOVE HUE! informational and relatable stories to determine true happiness and — are. With views ranging from around satisfaction with three important life When a teacher asked my 6-year-old 20 million to over 70 million, these lessons. nephew why his handwriting wasn’t inspirational stories give advice and Need a burst of motivation? as neat as usual, he responded, “I’m trying a new font.” help viewers understand the topic Tune in to career analyst Dan Pink’s — discussed. There are thousands of talk, The Puzzle of Motivation. With Two men are hiking through the almost 27 million views, he examines talks to choose from — just click on woods when one of them cries out, the topic that interests you! what truly motivates people with an “Snake! Run!” TED Talks feature real people interesting study that demonstrates His companion laughs at him. telling their real stories on stage with the powers of left-brain thinking vs. “Oh, relax. It’s only a baby,” he a small audience that laughs and cries right-brain thinking. says. “Don’t you hear the rattle?” with them. The talks are then posted Want to be and feel inspired? — to TED.com for anyone to view, and Listen to leadership expert Simon My laptop was driving me crazy. you don’t need to log in or make an Sinek’s powerful talk How Great “The A, E, and I keys always stick,” account to watch. The most popular Leaders Inspire Action. He explores I complained to a friend. talks feature scientists, psychologists, how the world’s greatest leaders can She quickly diagnosed the problem: businessmen and women, doctors, inspire cooperation, trust, and change “Your computer is suffering from influencers, and the leaders of by using examples like Martin Luther irritable vowel syndrome.” tomorrow. King, the Wright brothers, and Apple. — According to their website, “TED Sinek studied the way these leaders What did the nut say is a nonprofit devoted to sharing think, act, and communicate — then when it sneezed? ideas, usually in the form of short, codified it into a simple idea about Cash-ewwww! powerful talks (18 minutes or less). leading by inspiration. Source: www.ajokeaday.com

AUXILIARY SUDOKU Insert the missing numbers one to nine exactly once in every row, column, and 3x3 square. The three Sudoku games below are in order of beginner, newspaper style, and hard. Answers are found on page 57. 74 1 3 6 3 8 6 9 3 5 8 7 1 2 5 2 3 4 1 2 3 5 9 9 7 6 5 3 8 7 5 1 3 6 82 2 1 3 4 9 7 3 8 7 2 5 3 6 7 2 9 2 6 3 1 9 4 7 3 2 8 5 8 5 2 4 9 8 5 7 9 6 2 1 9 7 2 9 1 5 3 2 4 5 45 9 2 73 9 4 8 3 8 2 7

26 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 5 1 1 3 3 5 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 4 4 4 4 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 1 1 3 3 8 8 8 8 7 7

7 7 13 10 ⁄8 10 ⁄8 13 3 10 ⁄16 10 ⁄16 3 10 ⁄4 10 ⁄4

1 1 10 ⁄2 10 ⁄2

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01_29108_001_BIMPOPR.indd 1 2/4/20 7:57 AM IT’S ALL good board, they asked Foster to apply for GOOD TO GIVE a VCAF grant from the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation to help get things started. “At first, I was worried when they said we need to apply for a grant,” Foster said, “but it was really easy, and the ALA Foundation worked with me a lot during the process.” The ALA Foundation awards Veterans Creative Arts Festival grants up to $2,500 to ALA units or departments that host a VCAF event that feeds into the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival. Foster’s ALA unit was awarded $1,630, which helped the festival have success in its first year by providing easels, display materials, and prizes for the winning veterans. Since then, they have had more entries and GIVING A BRIGHTER FUTURE: Images of veteran Joshua Peterson’s artwork. Below: Peterson with his mother, Angie Foster. interest than ever, including another nearby veterans hospital that would TIPS ON STARTING A VETERANS CREATIVE like to host a VCAF of their own. ARTS FESTIVAL IN YOUR AREA If your local VA facility does A mother of a former U.S. Army Seeing that progress, Foster not currently host a local Veterans medic, Angie Foster saw how much realized that more veterans could Creative Arts Festival, you can work of a toll military service can have on benefit from artistic expression. She with your ALA unit and contact a person’s mental health. Her son, went to her local U.S. Department a VA staff member who instructs Joshua Peterson, returned from his of Veterans Affairs Medical Center creative arts, or a voluntary services time in the service suffering from in Grand Island, Neb., to see if they coordinator to get started. post-traumatic stress disorder and could host a Veterans Creative Arts moved into a facility to receive care. Festival (VCAF), a program she had There, he was seen the American introduced to art Foster’s ALA unit was Legion Auxiliary therapy. awarded $1,630, which helped promote over her 16 “He was the festival have success years of membership. never an artist in its first year ... The program is meant growing up,” to aid in the well-being Foster said, “and I could see from of veterans by introducing them to when he started, his pictures were art therapy and celebrating their If you have more questions very dark. He may not talk about it, talent with a showcase and festival. regarding how to start a local but he would paint his feelings, what Though Foster’s idea wasn’t acted Veterans Creative Arts Festival in he needed to get out.” upon immediately, her passion your community, please visit Foster saw her son’s recovery never dwindled, and when staff www.creativeartsfestival.va.gov. If firsthand — it was visible in the art at the Grand Island U.S. Veterans you already plan on hosting a VCAF he had created. Affairs Medical Center took an this year, you can apply for an ALA “Toward the end of his therapy interest, they knew exactly who to Foundation grant to support your and his time in the facility, his turn to. After figuring out details event at www.ALAFoundation.org/ paintings were brighter,” Foster said. and getting administration on grants.

Since 2000, the American Legion Auxiliary has been involved with the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, alongside the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Learn more at www.ALAforVeterans.org/NVCAF.

28 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IT’S ALL good GOOD LEARNING

MISSION EDUCATION FOR Mission Delivery: Basic ALL AMERICAN LEGION Training AUXILIARY MEMBERS • Discover the mission needs Learning is something that never in your own community and think ALA ACADEMY ends. No matter our age, there is differently about how we get others always something new we can learn to join us in service. REVAMPED! or teach others. As an organization, Mission Delivery: Veteran it is important for American Service Legion Auxiliary members to share • Get resources to tailor your Have you knowledge with each other to help programs to meet the needs of the continue the ALA’s longstanding veterans in your community and mission of serving veterans, military, learn about opportunities to serve in checked and their families. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Auxiliary members of all ages facilities. out the and levels in the organization can Mission Delivery through learn new skills and ways to serve Caregiver Support through ALA Academy and ALA • Discover American Legion new ALA Academy Live — all of which are Auxiliary specific tools and training free. In addition to the self-paced in place within the Military and Academy? courses on ALA Academy, you can Veteran Caregiver Network. now access recordings from previous • New and exciting opportunities What can you do? ALA Academy Live webinars at through the VA emerging to meet • Watch videos from www.ALAforVeterans.org/ALA- the needs of caregivers during the previous ALA Live Academy. You will need to log in to pandemic. access the recordings. Mission Delivery: Veterans Courses The list of available webinars Creative Arts • Take the newly continues to grow as National • Learn how to support local revised ALA 101 Headquarters staff and members veterans creative arts competitions work together to create new both financially and with volunteer course material. The recordings available: support. • See the new look and ALA Foundation Grants Panel • Discover ways to fund activities ways to engage with • Learn how to apply for grants through VCAF grants from the ALA content for things such as a local Veterans Foundation. Creative Arts Festival or promoting If you have not taken an ALA • Leave reviews from the Auxiliary while working the Academy self-paced course, courses mission. consider adding them to your list Junior Mentor Training Series of learning opportunities. Courses Stay tuned for more ALA Course 1: Getting Started with available: Academy Live courses and Juniors • ALA 101 self-paced content by going • Learn how to create and instill • ALA Branding and Why it to www.ALAforVeterans. an appreciation and habit of service Matters to Me org/ALA-Academy in Juniors so they’ll stay involved as • ALA Communication Methods adult members. • Establishing an ALA Culture of Junior Mentor Training Series Goodwill Course 2: Junior Patch Program • ALA Fundraising • Develop an understanding of • How to Deal with Conflict how the ALA Patch Program relates • ALA Leadership: Living Our to our mission and how to engage Motto of Service Not Self Junior members in the program. • ALA Juniors eLearning Course Junior Mentor Training To keep up to date on all of the Series Course 3: Juniors and The latest offerings for ALA Academy American Legion Family and ALA Academy Live, follow • Get ideas on how to expand our social media channels (@ the role of ALA Juniors within The ALAforVeterans) and the monthly American Legion Family. ALA eNews. IT’S ALL good Committee/governing board still GOOD PLANNING adopts goals, but NHQ staff, with input from volunteers, implements the strategies to reach the goals. • Moving forward, division budgets will include resources to implement strategies and tactics, as opposed to the previous plan, which had its own strategic plan budget. This time, no strategic planning reserves will be established. • Individual staff performance will be tied to division strategic plans. Previously, staff was taxed with completing regular job duties AND strategic plan duties, which often had nothing to do with their core job functions. • Metrics will be used to evaluate, report, and, when necessary, modify strategies, allowing the ALA to monitor WHY A STRATEGIC PLAN MATTERS AT THE UNIT LEVEL progress and recognize achievements Following the completion of the know what action you need to take. — two things members noticed were American Legion Auxiliary’s 5-Year The ALA’s national Strategic lacking from the previous plan. Centennial Strategic Plan in 2019, Planning Committee will develop The current strategic plan will allow ALA National Headquarters staff strategies and tactics that can be us to have multiple accomplishments and volunteers began working on the applied at the unit level. After all, we in each area. During quarter one of current strategic plan. Launching in need our units and members in order the plan, NHQ saw progress in each October 2020, NHQ has already seen to make our mission successful. of the goals. Here are just a few of the results for the first quarter. One such strategy will be for units accomplishments: You may be wondering what to build a stronger relationship with • Launched a refreshed ALA this means at the local level and The American Legion. Our Legion national website, enabling more why members should care. The Family can achieve great success visibility and awareness to the public. phrase “strategic planning” may if we all work together toward our • Membership: Since the launch of seem complicated and something common collective missions. the redesigned website, there has been you may not need at the unit level. a 30 percent increase in the number of But strategic planning is important Goals of the national ALA dues renewed online compared to the for organizations and businesses — strategic plan: same period last year. no matter the size — to prioritize • Cultivate a variety of mission • On #GivingTuesday last fall, the objectives and reach long-term goals. engagement opportunities. ALA Foundation raised $56,000 from It helps every level of our organization • Enhance organizational 595 donations. This surpasses 2019’s focus on the priorities and the steps effectiveness of all levels: national, total by more than $11,000 and 100 needed to have success at all levels. department, unit. donors. This will ensure the ALA continues • Recruit and retain members • ALA Academy Live webinars, its longstanding mission of serving through mission engagement. designed to enhance mission delivery, veterans, military, and their families • Ensure financial stewardship are reaching more unit-level members. long into the future. of resources to maximize mission • ALA Academy self-paced courses Think of strategic planning in the delivery. are now easier to access and have same way you would your personal • Enhance and foster the family refreshed content and new features — goals. Have you made a plan for relationship with The American an added benefit for ALA members. retirement? What steps do you need to Legion. At the end of each quarter, NHQ take to reach your post-employment division directors will evaluate the plan objectives? Are you planning a job This strategic plan differs in to make sure progress is being made change? What do you need to do to many ways from the previous toward accomplishing the strategies. make that happen? In both of these national plan: This allows for adjustments to made if scenarios, you need to have a plan and • The National Executive necessary.

We’d love to hear how your unit is using a strategic plan. Email us at [email protected].

30 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org Membership retention by using your voice When was the last time you reached a fellow member by phone?

When we call members who they are a dynamic part of regularly renew their dues, as our organization. well as those who lapsed in Rally around our veterans, their membership, it shows community, and members. we care. A simple thank-you Take the time to personally or “How are you doing?” reach out to those who have goes a long way. A quick dedicated their time to the phone check-in with unit Auxiliary. members makes them feel

Learn how you can connect even further: Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org

© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 09/2020 MEMBERSHIP: PART TWO OF A FOUR-PART SERIES This year, Auxiliary magazine is publishing articles with useful information about gaining and retaining members within the American Legion Auxiliary, and other parts of our American Legion Family. This article is about recruitment. Topics such as membership retention and encouraging former members to rejoin will be explored in future articles. Recruiting Members for the Entire American Legion Family … and Why It Should be Done

WORKING TOGETHER: American Legion Family members of Post 27 in Missoula, Mont., dispose of unserviceable flags during a retirement ceremony on Flag Day (photo by Tommy Martino/The American Legion). Recruiting for all parts of The military, their families, and your Chairman Pam Ray. American Legion Family is easier community. You’re passing along Auxiliary magazine interviewed than one might think. It doesn’t take useful and helpful information. Ray for tips to help all members of a salesperson or pressure-ladened One way to share information is the Legion Family recruit for the selling tactics. Recruiting usually through authentic and friendly ALA, the Legion, and Sons of The begins with a conversation in which conversations. American Legion. Some of these the Legion Family member is an “I don’t like to start with, ‘Would suggestions may be ones you’ve active listener — and sincere when you like to be a member?’ Instead, heard or seen previously. But good speaking. I start with a short explanation advice bears repeating. Adapt It may help if you don’t think of of what we do, what we’re about, these recruitment tips as needed to it as recruiting. After all, what you’re and then I say: ‘Is there anything accommodate the situation you’re doing is sharing. You’re telling our organization can do for you or in, the person you’re talking to, a person about an opportunity your family right now?’,” said ALA and to foster a natural and honest to serve and honor veterans, National Membership Committee conversation.

32 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org Before that discussion begins and American Legion Riders. This can say something like, ‘I belong to — long before you meet that can help with recruitment for the the Sons of The American Legion. prospective member, there’s other Legion Family organizations. And there’s also an American Legion something you may want to do A few examples: To be eligible and an American Legion Auxiliary. first: Familiarize yourself with for the Auxiliary under the They have great programs as well. Do everything each Legion Family military service of a living relative you have any special interests in the organization does and has to offer. as outlined in our criteria, that areas of serving veterans or military? Learn the basics about each veteran or servicemember has I can hook you up with someone organization’s programs, outreach, to be or become a Legionnaire. who can tell you more about it.’ Or, ‘I and activities. There’s no need to To join a chapter of Riders, you can tell you about this program if it’s memorize and spout off all of the have to be a member of either the of interest to you.’ facts, dates, and figures in the history Auxiliary, Legion, or Sons. ALA’s “If you sign up an Auxiliary of all Legion Family organizations. adult members must be at least 18 member, it’s OK to ask, ‘Do you In fact, it’s a good idea to do a lot of years old, and ALA Juniors range have a son or grandson? We have listening to the prospective member, in age from birth to 17. And males a program for him called the Sons Ray advises. who qualify for the Sons of The of The American Legion. And for “You have to do more listening American Legion can be any age. daughters and granddaughters, we than talking when you are recruiting. “You don’t have to go into all have Auxiliary Junior members. You have to show interest in them of the specifics of membership Maybe you’ll want to sign them up.’ as people. See if there is a natural eligibility criteria during a casual Or you might want to give the person connection between what he, she, conversation — unless you are at a the information and say, ‘You might or their family likes to do and the recruitment event and you have those want to think about signing him or programs, activities, and outreach details available,” Ray said. Details her up at some point,’” Ray said. opportunities our Legion Family on membership eligibility criteria offers. Then talk about those can be found for ALA at www. If you decide to mention facts and offerings that may be of interest to ALAforVeterans.org, and for Legion, figures, choose impact numbers the prospective member and his or Sons, and Riders via Legion.org. and data which show how our her family,” Ray said. “It’s important for all of us to organizations help veterans, remember when recruiting that, servicemembers, military families, If there is a natural commonality if we are speaking to a veteran or youth, and communities locally, between the prospective member’s servicemember, we are speaking nationally, and worldwide. interests and the missions, with one of our nation’s heroes. You You might pick a national impact values, programs, and activities need to let them know how proud figure, such as: For military families, of Legion Family, discuss those you are to even be speaking with the American Legion Auxiliary commonalities. them and how much you appreciate raised and spent $1.1 million in “What I could say to one their service. Because if you show resources in 2020. Or give a local prospective member may be well sincerity and respect, then they may impact figure or brief fact. Here’s a received but could mean absolutely want to look into volunteering with hypothetical example: “Our ALA nothing to another person. For you,” Ray said. unit, here in town, provided 100 example: They may not care about To get comfortable recruiting meals to local veterans in need over our scholarship programs, or they for other parts of the Legion the last two months.” Whether you may feel uncomfortable going to Family, talk to other Legion Family offer an impact figure or fact — a nursing homes and visiting with members in your post home. Get local or national one, or both — is up people they don’t know. You have to familiar with events, activities, and to you. listen, no matter which part of the mission-based outreach occurring National impact figures and facts Legion Family you are recruiting for. at the local level. can be found in the ALA Annual What is their family dynamic? What Report at www.ALAforVeterans.org. do they like to do?” Ray said. Recruiting for other parts of The Promote the website to prospective “If you don’t feel as if you are American Legion Family can be as members who want more specific getting anywhere or the person is not simple as mentioning the other or in-depth information about our interested, let go of the membership organizations. Ray has some programs (including ALA Juniors), topic. But usually, if you listen, you’re examples of wording that can activities or impact figures, and going to find one thing you can be used in a couple of different facts about the ALA (including relate to something in The American scenarios. ALA Juniors). Information about Legion Family,” she added. “Know your audience. Usually, The American Legion, Sons of The someone will see a Sons member’s American Legion, and American Understand membership eligibility cap or shirt and ask about that. And Legion Riders can be found at criteria for the ALA, Legion, Sons, that’s how a conversation starts. They Legion.org. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 33 MISSION SUPPORT (top row, from left): Kansas member Paula Sellens helps families through a Thanksgiving food line (photo: Ben Mikesell/The American Legion); Sons of The American Legion Squadron 507 of Newhall, Calif., along with Legion and Auxiliary members, distribute hot dog lunches to veterans; (bottom row, from left): Illinois members during an American Legion Family membership caravan; members of the Legion Family Post 86 in Arizona participate in a Wreaths Across America event; and a flag retirement ceremony in Missoula, Mont. (photo: Tommy Martino/The American Legion). One of the most frequent Make room at the recruitment encourage Legionnaires to establish responses when talking to a table for other Legion Family a Sons squadron at the post home. prospective member about joining organizations. “That’s where the Legion can help any organization revolves around Setting up a table to engage the Auxiliary. What they could say to dues — and not wanting to pay with prospective members at a other Legionnaires at bachelor posts is, any. Ray has a suggestion for how community event? Ask others ‘You know, you could do X, Y, and Z to respond to that: from your post home to join. if you added an Auxiliary unit. Let me Tell the truth. The explanation Bring applications for each Family hook you up with someone who can doesn’t have to be too heavy on organization. give you more information and help details, unless you have a couple of “Because we are a Legion you do that. And the Sons is a program specifics to share. Family, I think a united approach of the Legion. Start a squadron and “I would say: ‘It goes to veterans. to membership recruitment would let Sons members help you with the And it goes to military. And it goes help us. And having all of our mission,’” Ray said. to their families. And it goes to organizations at the same table Information about chartering communities every time you step makes a statement that we are an ALA unit is located at www. out the door [as a member] to do indeed a family,” Ray said. ALAforVeterans.org. Learn about something for them.’ Dues don’t go “At our Illinois State Fair every establishing a Sons squadron or a to everyday operations; I think a lot year, [ALA and Legion Illinois Riders chapter via Legion.org. of people don’t understand that,” Ray departments jointly] have a explained. Legion Family membership table. Some post homes already have We have applications. We have effective techniques for finding and Another common negative posters that show what we do as signing up new members for the response, a potential recruitment individual organizations and as a Auxiliary, Legion, and Sons. We can roadblock from a prospective Legion Family. Of course, we’re all learn from them. member, is dislike for meetings. branded. It’s very simple to do,” she “If you have a successful strategy for Ray’s got a response for that too. added. recruiting for the entire Legion Family, “’Being a member doesn’t mean please share it with other units, posts, you have to be at every meeting Auxiliary members: Ask and squadrons. If you see another post or event every time. Let’s find out Legionnaires at your post home home that has had this success, it’s what works best for you.’ This to ask Legionnaires at bachelor acceptable to ask them how they did is appropriate no matter which posts elsewhere, to consider it. It’s one way you can help our Legion Legion Family organization you are helping to charter an ALA unit Family grow and support our collective discussing,” Ray said. there. It is also a good idea to missions even more,” Ray said.

34 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org Recruiting for other parts Ask new members if they have recruits. Squadron 3’s goal to reach of The American Legion Family relatives who might be eligible to by June 2021 is 35. As of Feb. 24, HOW THEY DID IT join ALA, Legion, Sons, and Riders. the squadron has 39 members, 26 of When it comes to growing If your post does not have an ALA whom are new recruits. membership within the Legion unit, Sons squadron, or Riders What’s our secret to success? Family, there isn’t a one-size-fits- chapter, why not work to start one? One thing is to recruit for the all approach to achieving the goal. A full post home helps with the entire American Legion Family. Four Legion Family members mission. If someone signs up for the ALA, shared with Auxiliary magazine Jeffrey K. Crouser Legion, Sons, or Riders, ask how they recruit for the American Member of The questions to see if the new member Legion Auxiliary, The American American Legion, has a relative who may be eligible to Legion, and Sons of The American American Legion join any part of the Legion Family. Legion. Auxiliary, Sons We have a very active media of The American communications team. We are Mention all Legion Family Legion, and American Legion involved in the social media, email organizations in conversations Riders communications with all of our with prospective members. Post/Unit/Squadron/Chapter 3 members, email blasts, and articles Sheila L. Couch Milford, Del. in the paper. These days, most Member of Jeffrey K. Crouser decided to newsprint professionals are begging American Legion transfer his Legion membership to for content. If you send them some Auxiliary and Post 3 in Milford, Del., in 2018 to information on a feel-good project, American Legion help save a post that was close to they’ll print it for you free of charge. Riders turning in its charter due to major Best advertising in the world. Unit 88/Chapter 88 membership decreases. The effort was Nashville, Tenn. a success. After 18 months, Post 3 Tell your friends, neighbors, I just try to do it naturally. It’s membership went from 52 and falling co-workers, and other contacts part of the conversations I have with to 99 and climbing. But that wasn’t about the Legion Family. veterans. I tell them, ‘Thank you for enough for Crouser and many of his Jill Puett your service. It’s much appreciated by fellow Legionnaires at Post 3. The Member of me and my family.’ I might mention story continues from there … American Legion the service of my dad and my father- “We decided that being an Auxiliary in-law, who are both deceased. And individual post — without an Unit 100 my husband and his two brothers, American Legion Auxiliary unit, Cherryville, NC they’re all veterans. One thing leads without a Sons of The American A lot of customers who come to another sometimes during these Legion squadron, without an into the long-term care pharmacy chats. American Legion Riders chapter — where I work are veterans. And I may ask if they’ve heard of The we just weren’t complete without the they are so proud of their military American Legion or the American whole Legion Family there, working time. They seem to always have Legion Auxiliary. If they haven’t, I together on goals toward success. You their military hats on. I look out for tell them about the organizations can’t be a Family if there’s just one of that, and when I see them, I thank and tell them the website where you. them for their service. Then, I ask they can learn more. I have said We opened our post home June them whether they belong to The something about all of them. I share 1, 2020, and immediately started — American Legion. If they say no, I info about different activities and with assistance from leaders at ALA invite them to visit with us at our programs the Legion Family offers. Department and Sons Detachment of Legion post home. I tell him the best If the conversation doesn’t go that Delaware — to form our post home’s times to show up. I give them my way, it’s not something that I force on unit, squadron, and chapter. card in case they are interested in anybody: To stand there and listen We worked hard to exceed Unit visiting or joining and want to call to me. 3’s membership goal for the current me about it. My recruiting efforts are usually administrative year. The goal, set by Some of the guys who come in done when I participate in the the ALA Department of Delaware, to the pharmacy, I will probably annual Legacy Run in August. I may was 30 by June 2021. As of Feb. 24, know that their fathers served in the not see them again, so I don’t know Unit 3 has 75 members. Of that, military and I will let them know how many I recruit in those cases. 60 are new members and 11 are we have a Sons of The American But when I have those discussions transfers from other units. With a Legion squadron at our post. I locally, I would say 10, maybe 15, of goal of 199 Legionnaires by June invite them to come to the post, the people I’ve spoken to about our 2021, Post 3 membership rose to 325 maybe to sit in on a Sons meeting. Legion Family have joined. as of Feb. 24. Of that 325, 47 are new I tell them that as a member, you’d www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 35 be helping our veterans and that we pick up membership and where the There is encouragement, within are also about helping our children Legion can pick up membership. national leadership from The and youth. I tell them all of the work Once we talk to the Legion leaders American Legion, for Legionnaires, the Sons do and what we all do as a at our post and find Legionnaires Auxiliary members, and Sons Legion Family. who have spouses and children who members to recruit for each other’s You can’t get people to join if you haven’t joined our Legion Family, organizations. don’t talk and listen to them. You then we have an avenue to send “We should be constantly have to tell them what you do. For us, them membership applications with recruiting for the entire American it’s telling what the Auxiliary, Legion, the info about the Auxiliary and Legion Family every time we are Sons, and the Riders do. Sons of The American Legion. The talking with a veteran or family It’s about sharing our Legion [Auxiliary] here has gotten a number member of a veteran! Especially when Family information with people of new members — as many as eight talking with our younger veterans and you know. I have my community through the years — this way. Then, family members, they are more likely connections because Cherryville’s some of those new members have told to want to do things together rather population is about 5,000 and I’ve other people who have moved into than apart. lived here all my life. So, I know a lot our area, and some of those eligible We are much stronger as a Family of people here. people are coming into the post and unit than we are individually. Because But if you don’t have those type signing up. we are devoted to help our fellow of connections, there’s still something I’ve been suggesting this to people veterans and their family, mold you can do. Most towns and cities in my district and department for a and teach our youth, advocate for a have a chamber of commerce, number of years. I know that some strong National Security, and be on and the chambers usually have units and posts have done this and the front lines showing our love of websites where you can put general have added to their membership this country through our Americanism information about organizations. way. spirit, we can better support our four If you’re a member of another And by the way, this is a nice time pillars when doing it together. We community group, you can make to get a half of a dozen or so of your welcome and encourage Legionnaires, connections there and maybe one Auxiliary members involved in this Auxiliary, and Sons of The American of your contacts there might be as a project. If we are making calls Legion members to recruit for eligible to join our Legion Family. to follow up on potential members the entire Family.” — Legionnaire And there’s also connections you can discovered through the roster review, Jay Bowen, National Chairman, make at work. Whenever you are each Auxiliary member can take a Membership and Post Activities talking to people about signing up, few names of people to call. make sure you talk about all of our The American Legion has had a organizations in our Legion Family, INSPIRE OTHERS IN high regard for the ALA dating and not just the one you belong to. back to its early years YOUR POST HOME TO “The Auxiliary is the right arm Identify Legion Family members WORK AS A TEAM AND of the main body, which is The with relatives who might be RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS American Legion.” — James Drain, eligible to join but haven’t. past national commander of The Shirley Frederick FOR THE ALA, LEGION, American Legion (American Legion Member of AND SONS Weekly magazine, Aug. 21, American Legion Membership matters should not 1925/pg. 4) Auxiliary be placed upon the shoulders of only “The force to achieve the Legion’s Unit 202 one person, or on only one Legion aims receives added intensity when Hackensack, Minn. Family organization at a post home. the strength of the Legion Auxiliary One way to find new members It may require some inspiration to is pushing it on. The Legion needs for other parts of our post home is to get others in your Legion Family on the Auxiliary. The encouragement of review the rosters of the unit and post board with the concept of working every individual Legionnaire, post, to see if there are current members together, recruiting together, and and department, should be given with relatives who may be eligible to seeking members for the Auxiliary, unstintingly to the Auxiliary. Every join but haven’t done so already. Legion, and Sons … not just for the act of the Legion and its Auxiliary At my post home, we’ve done this organization to which one belongs. should be for the other and both roster review in a couple of different Here are some statements and always for everything to benefit our ways through the years. Depending facts which illustrate the strong common country.” — James Drain, on who’s in the Auxiliary unit and relationships across The American past national commander of The Legion post leadership roles at that Legion Family — and why it makes American Legion (American Legion time, we’ve shared the [unit and post] sense to recruit members for all Weekly magazine, Aug. 21, 1925/ rosters to see where the Auxiliary can parts of the Family organizations. pg. 4)

36 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org “The Auxiliary is the other half and so does common fairness.” Legion and honor the sacrifice of that waited for us at home and now — Editorial (American Legion Weekly those who serve by enhancing the walks at our side.” — Columnist magazine, Aug. 21, 1925/pg. 8) lives of our veterans, military, and Frederick Palmer (American Legion their families, both at home and Weekly magazine, Aug. 21, 1925/ Help your Family members in abroad. For God and country, we pg. 4) recruiting efforts by talking more advocate for veterans, educate our “The bachelor post, the one about their organizations to others citizens, mentor youth, and promote which does not have an Auxiliary “The term Legion Family is more patriotism, good citizenship, peace, unit, is not making the most of its than just words. We are really a and security. opportunities. To bachelor posts, I family. Our local ALA units, Legion say: ‘Get an Auxiliary unit as quickly posts, Sons squadrons, and Riders Vision Statement as you can and watch yourselves go chapters share a post home. So why The vision of the American forward.’ To those posts fortunate not help each other with finding new Legion Auxiliary is to support The in having a unit, I say: ‘Back it up, members? Just a mention of our other American Legion while becoming count upon it to help you, and watch organizations during a conversation the premier service organization it go forward with you.” — James with a prospective member can make and foundation of every community Drain, past national commander of a difference. It can help our family providing support for our veterans, The American Legion (American grow. ” — Pam Ray, ALA National our military, and their families Legion Weekly magazine, Aug. 21, Membership Committee Chairman by shaping a positive future in 1925/pg. 4) an atmosphere of fellowship, “Every bachelor post ought to ask Supporting The American Legion is patriotism, peace, and security. itself seriously why it is not taking a key part of ALA’s mission, vision, For over a century, American its proper place in Legion affairs and purpose Legion Family members have by inviting the women relatives of This is spelled out in the first collaborated on so many successful its members to join the American sentences of the Auxiliary’s mission efforts to help and honor Legion Auxiliary. Every post having and vision statements: America’s veterans, military, and an Auxiliary unit may well examine their families. its own record to determine whether Mission Statement So why not work together to it has given its Auxiliary unit the full In the spirit of Service Not Self, recruit, signing up members for all support to which it is entitled. Faith in the mission of the American Legion parts of our Legion Family? H the future of the Legion demands this, Auxiliary is to support The American By Landa Bagley, Staff Writer

FAMILY WITH FLAGS: Members of Pennsylvania’s American Legion 12th District Family host a patriotic Fourth of July concert for patients and residents at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center in Wilkes Barre, Pa. (photo by Corey Perrine/The American Legion). www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 37 National Poppy Day® is May 28 This Year Get Creative with Poppy Distribution

Honor the fallen and support the living. the soldiers who fought and died during WWI. In This motto has been part of poppy distribution for the decades that followed, poppies have been worn, decades, with proceeds going toward veterans, military, displayed, and distributed for fundraising efforts by and their families. veterans service and support organizations like the The focus on the poppy began after the death American Legion Auxiliary around the world. and destruction that was part of when beautiful, bright red poppies began to flourish in the National Poppy Day soils of and . This little flower came Led by the American Legion Auxiliary, each year to symbolize the blood shed during battle following members of The American Legion Family distribute publication of the wartime poem In . poppies in exchange for donations to support the future Moina Michael drew inspiration from this poem when of veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their she popularized the idea of wearing a poppy flower in families with medical and financial needs. memory of the lives lost in WWI. These poppy distribution days are often observed A few years later, the poppy became the official around both Memorial Day and Veterans Day in the flower of The American Legion Family to memorialize United States. In 2017, The American Legion Family

38 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org brought National Poppy Day to the United States by event, the unit has decided to purchase a second sign. asking Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial (Read more about branded signage on page 42 in this Day as National Poppy Day — May 28 this year. feature story.) In 2018, The American Legion successfully Carney said the ease of the event for members was trademarked the name National Poppy Day for the a determining factor in doing it again for 2021. Rather Legion Family to use publicly. Trademarking National than having members out at local stores, conducting Poppy Day helped to establish The American Legion the event at the post made it easy for members to go Family as the authority on all things poppy related. inside and take a break from volunteering and/or ALA units and departments are encouraged to use the from the elements, make more poppies, and also gave trademark ® symbol when using the name National the opportunity for more American Legion Family Poppy Day on all communications materials. Just members to get involved being held at the post home. include the symbol on first reference. The Family aspect, Carney said, was a key part to their success and suggests units work with other parts Thinking outside the box for poppy distribution of the Family, even reaching out to another post if As we all experienced last year and yet this year, the needed and doing something jointly. pandemic has changed the way members distributed Unit 45 utilized social media to spread the word the poppy and the way we’ve celebrated National Poppy about their poppy distribution last year and plan to do Day. Since our founding, ALA members have continued so with this year’s event. to be resilient in whatever they face, and continuing to “Facebook has been our friend without a doubt,” promote the poppy is no exception. Carney said. “We pushed a lot of things out through Last year, many members didn’t do anything for social.” National Poppy Day because they didn’t know how to Carney offers advice to other units thinking of do it contactless, as the Auxiliary is such a hands-on doing a contactless poppy drive-thru or something organization. But the pandemic didn’t stop some units, different than what they usually do. like Unit 45 in Greenbrier, Tenn., whose members “You just have to be creative,” she said. “Sometimes figured out a way to continue with distribution while we get stuck in a rut and are not thinking outside the keeping its members and community safe. Lessons box at all. The more creative you are, the more you learned from last year’s event have prompted the unit to engage the community, the better off you are. Your do a contactless drive-thru poppy distribution again this community embraces year. you when you try “Think outside the box,” said Kathi Carney, president something different.” of Unit 45, as part of her advice to other members. “Look Bonus tip: at your location and what you can do in that location to Collaborate with get your community behind you.” a local business to If that location — say, your post home — doesn’t include coupons for work well for an event like this, Carney suggests a small item. For borrowing someone else’s location for your poppy example, Unit 5 in distribution. Tampa, Fla., added Last year, the flow of Unit 45’s event went really well, a twist to its poppy so they plan on duplicating that again. One change drive-thru event. based on last year’s event will be instead of it simply They partnered with a being focused on distribution, it will be more of a drive- local McDonald’s and thru educational event, showcasing different pieces of got “bounce back” history with the poppy so people can go slower and read. coupons for a free Community members can also park and walk to read burger, which they the signs if they wish. The unit is also adding a copy of then included with the poem in the bags with the poppies the poppies during so people will have that history to take with them. their distribution. Carney added they also hope to make a giant poppy out In less time than a of plywood with a hole in the middle so people can put traditional poppy their head through and take a picture. distribution event One suggestion Carney has for those thinking of with a membership doing a drive-thru poppy event is to make sure to have of only 42, the unit good signage, especially facing two sides, as visibility earned over $1,000 in from both sides of the road is important. After last year’s donations! www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 39 More creative ways to distribute poppies during guidelines for social distancing. the pandemic This toolkit is designed to assist with local promotion. In addition to contactless drive-thru poppy It contains a proclamation, sample media alert, press distribution, members got creative last year and tried release, social media posts, graphics, and talking points new things to raise funds. Needing to do something to ensure a consistent message is used by everyone in different than your usual poppy distribution because of The American Legion Family. It also includes a tip sheet the pandemic? Borrow one of these ideas! for hosting a poppymaking event. • Distribute poppy donation cans and jars to • State and citywide proclamations: Ask your local businesses. These businesses are given recognition for government to declare May 28, 2021, as National Poppy their support in local newspapers, on social media, and Day in your community. A sample proclamation and on radio and television. request letter have been included in the toolkit and • Send letters with poppies, poppy bookmarks, provide language that can be used to help your unit and and the In Flanders Fields poem to your post’s Family post garner support from state and local officials. members requesting donations. Include self-addressed, • Media alert: Announces local poppymaking events, stamped envelopes for their convenience. poppy distribution, and other activities planned around • Make poppy face masks, and label bottles of hand National Poppy Day. This at-a-glance reminder should sanitizers with the ALA emblem to raise funds. be distributed to local media outlets two days prior to • Distribute poppies during drive-up meals held an event. List the specifics of where the media can go at posts. Consider attaching a poppy and a poppy to learn more about National Poppy Day and interview information sheet to lunch bags. local members of The American Legion Family. • Use social media to collect funds. Add donation • Press release: Issued after an event to recap the buttons to your website and Facebook page to encourage details and highlights for the media. You should include members to donate. a picture, if possible. In essence, you do reporters’ work • Hold virtual fundraising events through Zoom for them, increasing the chances of an outlet running meetings with unit/department members, auctioning the story if all of the details are provided in a clear and poppy items such as wreaths, hats, cookies, etc., or hold organized way. a raffle to increase poppy funds that may have been lost • Quick facts: A good leave-behind for media during the pandemic. following an interview, the quick facts sheet helps ensure that information and facts are accurately reported RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO UNITS by the press. It can also be used to provide unit and National Poppy Day toolkit post members with information, especially for those This toolkit is available to members of The American distributing poppies who may encounter questions from Legion Family to help get the word out about the poppy. the general public. Events that include local government, civic leaders, • Tip sheet — poppymaking event: The tip sheet is your community, and the media are opportunities for provided as a guide for hosting a poppymaking event. It departments and units to raise awareness and funds. is organized in a start-to-finish format and can be used Units and posts are encouraged to build on this by for reference when planning your event. hosting poppy awareness activities, such as inviting local • Social media suggestions: Unit and post websites government and civic leaders to a poppymaking event in and social media feeds can increase awareness about advance of National Poppy Day, while abiding by local National Poppy Day to members and followers. Be sure

DID YOU KNOW? The Sunday after National Poppy Day, May 30, is the Indianapolis 500 race, another opportunity to get The American Legion Family name and the importance of the poppy out to the general public. This year, the Family has a greater chance of educating the public on who we are, what we do, and why we matter with the multi-year agreement between The American Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing. The Legion will be a sponsor of the No. 48 Honda in the NTT IndyCar Series. The Legion will be featured prominently on the No. 48 Honda during every race in the 2021 and 2022 NTT IndyCar Series and will also be the primary paint scheme for two races in 2021 (photo: Tony Kanaan, the 2013 Indianapolis 500 winner, will drive the No. 48 car for his 20th race on the famous oval).

40 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org to regularly post information during the weeks leading American Legion Ailiar up to May 28, 2021, and encourage members to share iion In the spirit of Service Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support the links with their friends and family. This ensures that e American Legion and honor the sacri ce of those who serve by enhancing the lives your post promotes National Poppy Day outside The of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. y American Legion Family. Sample social media posts areFor God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote included in the toolkit for reference. patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. rra • Talking points: The entire American Legion Family ui is participating in and supporting National Poppy eanded a Day. It is very important that everyone communicates o e he o American Legion Auxiliary o raie nd a consistent message to the media. Talking points are National Headquarters 3450 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268-1334 and aarene P: (317) 569-4500 | F: (317) 569-4502 provided to ensure the campaign provides one clear, www.ALAforVeterans.org www.ALAFoundation.org united voice that explains how The American Legion © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters All rights reserved. 07/2018 Produced in the USA In the Spirit of Service Not Self Family is helping communities show their support for for Veterans, God and Country our heroes and servicemembers on National Poppy

Day. These talking points should be given to yourPoppy Guide_Cover.inddmedia 1 7/23/18 2:47 PM spokespeople and localized with details of events in your community. • Community calendar posting: Many print and HOW POPPY FUNDS web publications announce events in their community bulletin board sections. A sample post and submission CAN BE USED instructions have been provided to have your event(s) H The rehabilitation of veterans included on any community calendar. For web honorably discharged from the United publications, event information can be emailed to the website point of contact. States Armed Forces after April 6, 1917. • Logo: The American Legion Family logo and H The welfare of the families poppy graphic can be found online for download at of veterans of the above named poppydayusa.org. We encourage you to use these logos on all National Poppy Day communications. period. To view the toolkit, visit poppydayusa.org. The H American Legion Family created this website for the The rehabilitation of H The welfare public and Legion Family entities alike to learn more hospitalized military of veterans, about National Poppy Day. service personnel active military returning home and personnel, Banners and posters awaiting discharge who and the ALA National Headquarters recently created banners require treatment in families of for contactless drive-thru poppy distribution that units service hospitals. veterans and and departments can use by downloading them from the active military national website at www.ALAforVeterans.org. Two sizes H For the purpose of personnel are available: 8 feet by 2 feet and 8 feet by 3 feet. poppy kits and supplies of the above Poppy posters are also available for use. Sizes are 11 used to make symbolic named inch by 17 inch and 18 inch by 24 inch. One poster is poppies and poppy items period where branded for National Poppy Day, and one includes the In that will be distributed financial and Flanders Fields poem. for donations to the medical need is evident. Poppy Fund. Website resources The ALA national website has a Poppy Day resources Learn more about the poppy via the American tab. Here you will find ideas for alternative items to Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program Guide at distribute and a poppy kit. The distribution of the bright www.ALAforVeterans.org. red memorial flower to the public is one of the oldest and most widely recognized programs of the American Legion Auxiliary. There are many items you can distribute in exchange for donations in addition to the traditional crepe paper poppy. Items include a felt poppy, poppy cookies, and a poppy coloring book. The poppy kit is also available to units, with several members ages 6 to 12 who promote the Auxiliary items including a donation can label, poppy bookmark, memorial poppy. In Flanders Fields poem bookmark, Poppy Program certificate, PSA template, Poppy Day news release Virtual National Poppy Day event template, and a sample poppy proclamation. Once again, the national American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a virtual National Poppy Day event on Social media Facebook in early May. Leadership from The American Here’s an easy way to communicate the poppy message Legion Family will talk about the poppy’s significance, for everybody — social media. With the simple click of its place in history, and its relevance today. You will also a button, you can share your National Poppy Day plans hear from members explaining what the poppy means to with all of your followers! You can also request to join the them. national ALA Poppy Program Facebook group at www. New this year will be an added discussion on Facebook.com/groups/ALApoppy. There, you and other the crisis of food insecurity for junior enlisted American Legion Auxiliary members can share ideas, servicemembers — which poppy funds can be used to projects, and information about our Poppy Program! support these men and women. Visit Facebook.com/ alaforveterans for more information. The full program Poppy spirit will be available for viewing on YouTube. Search for Be sure to wear your poppy items with pride! Visit “AmericanLegionAux.” American Legion Flag & Emblem sales at www.Emblem. To learn more about poppies and the upcoming Legion.org to view National Poppy Day items such as National Poppy Day, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/ shirts, pins, poppy kits, donation cans, and more. poppy or poppydayusa.org. National Poppy Day is a strong renewal of our It’s for kids, too! nation’s commitment to a powerful reminder of the cost Children can also get involved in spreading the of our freedom. Wear a red poppy to honor the fallen poppy message. Poppy Poster Contests are held in local and support the living who have worn our nation’s schools for students in grades two to 12. Also, the Little uniform. H Miss Poppy Contest is a fun event for Junior Auxiliary By Sara Fowler, Staff Writer

The American Legion Family The American Legion Family National Poppy Day® National Poppy Day®

American Legion

Auxiliary © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 02/2021

In Flanders fields the poppies Inblow FlandersLoved and were loved Fields and now we lie, Between the crosses, row on row, In Flanders fields.

That mark our place; and in the sky Take up our quarrel with the foe: The American Legion Auxiliary started the Poppy Program in 1921, The larks, still bravely singing, fly To you from failing hands we throw connecting the visual image of the poppy with the service made by our veterans. American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org Scarce heard amid the guns below. The torch; be yours to hold it high.

we are the Dead. Short days ago If ye break faith with us who die In 1918, a woman named Moina Michael asked Americans to always wear a poppy we lived, felt dawn, we shall not sleep, though poppies grow flower in memory of the war dead.

American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org saw sunset glow, In Flanders fields. –col. John mccrae

After World War I, the poppy flourished in Europe.

American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Coloring Book © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 02/2021

For more information on the American Legion Auxiliary’s Poppy Program, call your local Auxiliary unit at 317-569-4500 or learn more about donation options at www.ALAforVeterans.org.

© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 12/2013

® NATIONAL POPPY DAY MARKETING ITEMS: Make sure your poppy activities are fully branded this year! Available for free download at www.ALAforVeterans.org are posters, banners, the Poppy Program Guide, a coloring book, and more. And check out American Legion Flag & Emblem Sales at emblem.Legion.org or 1-888-453-4466 for donation cans, shirts, stickers, patches, pins, jewelry, bookmarks, and more!

42 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IMPACT ALA! NEC APPROVES RESOLUTIONS; DELEGATES TO VOTE AT CONVENTION At its mid-year meeting, the position needs to be established in There can be legal ramifications National Executive Committee the bylaws. for failing to perform background received a refresher on business items These items will be voted on at checks for those interacting with from the cancelled 2020 National the ALA’s National Convention, children or vulnerable populations. Convention, and what business will currently scheduled for Aug. 27-Sept. This policy is a formal statement of be presented this year. 2 in Phoenix. the national organization’s position The proposed changes to the ALA In other news, the NEC approved on background checks. Departments Constitution & Bylaws will be voted the national policy for employee are encouraged to adopt a similar on by delegates at the 2021 National and volunteer background checks. background check policy. Convention. There was some concern among Through a nationwide agreement The first change is to establish the NEC members if this would put an between The American Legion and Executive Committee to the NEC in additional financial burden on units Protect Youth Sports (PYS), one of the bylaws. While the responsibilities and departments. the nation’s premier background of the Executive Committee are Background checks are a long- screening providers, Auxiliary already defined in the Standing standing risk mitigation practice departments have the opportunity Rules, the committee itself needs of the national organization, and to order background checks at a to be established by name in the nonprofits nationwide and have been significantly discounted rate. To bylaws. The purpose of the Executive recommended to departments and learn more about PYS and discount Committee is to review, research, units for many years. pricing, call (877) 319-5587. and make recommendations to the NEC on matters requiring NEC Special committee members ratified at NEC meeting action, and to address and act on time-sensitive matters such as in After an unbiased and objective process, 16 members were chosen from 300 applicants to serve on the Code of Ethical Conduct Review and the emergency situations subject to Inclusion & Diversity special committees. See page 23 in this issue of ratification by the NEC. Auxiliary to meet the committee members. The second change to vote on at National Convention is renaming the NEC to the National Board of Directors. The name would change, not the duties. The ALA’s governing No Availale ALA structure can be very challenging to try to describe internally and oy and Halloeen externally. When the organization was established over 100 years ago, this name didn’t really create oloring oos confusion. urchase at emlem.legion.org In today’s culture, “board of directors” is the most commonly or y calling or donload understood name for a governing ree at .ALAoreterans.org/coloringoos board. It would also align the ALA more with Indiana corporation statutes, the state where the ALA national organization is incorporated. A name change would reflect the legal responsibilities vested in board members by the state. The third item of change to the The American Legion Auxiliary started the Poppy Program in 1921, connecting the visual image of the poppy with the service made by our veterans. bylaws is creating the position American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org

BOO In 1918, a woman named Moina Michael of executive director at National Take a parent along asked Americans to always wear a poppy when you’re little. flower in memory of the war dead. American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org Headquarters, its duty, authority, American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org Only trick-or-treat at homes After World War I, the poppy with porch lights on. and to whom the position is American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org flourished in Europe. Have A Safe American Legion Auxiliary American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org Poppy Coloring Book responsible. Responsibilities of the Always rememberHalloween! to look both ways before crossing the street.

American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.ALAforVeterans.org NHQ executive director are already American Legion Auxiliary detailed in the standing rules, but the Coloring Book www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 43 IMPACT ALA! NATIONAL COMMITTEE REPORTS ALA GIRLS NATION: PERSEVERANCE THROUGH A PANDEMIC www.Facebook.com/groups/ALAGirlsState programs. Their formats were They are willing to do whatever as different as night and day, but needs to be done to have a 2021 they had resounding compliments ALAGS program. They are carefully from delegates who thanked the analyzing their options and making programs for not forgetting them. the best decisions they can with the Fast forward to spring 2021, and information they have. Will this be again decisions are being made the program that we have always regarding our American Legion known? No, but that is not to say it Auxiliary Girls State programs. will be worse or better. It will just be Many have already made the different. decision to go virtual. Some have Continue to do your part by decided to continue with an in- recruiting young women to attend person program, while others will this premiere program of the ALA. Two new words we are hearing be making their decision soon. Encourage your ALA Girls State often in the ALA Girls State world Is one better than another? No. leaders. Believe me; they need that — “in-person” and “virtual.” Who Do we wish that all could be in right now more than ever. This year would have thought we would use person? Yes, but many are limited will not be the same as what we’ve these words when we talk about by their colleges not allowing them always done, but it will preserve the American Legion Auxiliary Girls on campus, insurance, and safety American Legion Auxiliary Girls State? However, during this time of concerns to consider during the State program for the future. COVID-19, these formats are being pandemic. considered. In 2020, ALA Girls Your ALA Girls State leaders Wendy Riggle is a 59-year State programs made the decision are making decisions they never member of the ALA. She to do something by holding virtual thought they would have to make. belongs to Unit 177 in Mount Auburn, Iowa.

AUDIT: WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED FROM COVID-19 THIS PAST YEAR COVID-19 has highlighted that restore operations. control processes, procedures and unanticipated occurrences caused We also learned from facing the regulations, financial credibility, and by vulnerabilities may be avoided pandemic that there is no better long-term viability. through pre-emptive action. time to develop and implement a Audit Committees should The pandemic put things in plan to digitize the organization’s supervise how management a new perspective — disasters records. A Record Retention and monitors and controls major can strike anytime and in any Destruction Policy should be financial risk exposures to include form, which may suspend, alter, reviewed to include guidelines for fraud, cybersecurity, and data or paralyze operations if not handling digital and electronic files, privacy issues. The shift to virtual adequately prepared. A detailed backup procedures, archiving of interactions brought with it the Disaster Response and Recovery required documents, and testing potential for heightened risks Plan can help serve as a roadmap to confirm integrity of the files for related to company processes being for continuing operations under reliability. conducted remotely, such as the adverse conditions. It should This year has necessitated use of remote access leading to be updated annually with embracing virtual meetings and cyber exposure risks or fraud being information, such as an inventory increased interactions with key intensified due to necessary system of equipment, a list of vendors, parties, such as management, the updates and security platforms, login and passwords to re-establish governing body, and the external financial pressures, and new connection, emergency contact list, auditor. The main responsibility is operating environments. and alternative worksite plans in to oversee the veracity of the ALA’s the event of displacement. The plan financial statements, including Jeri Greenwell is a 54-year member of the Auxiliary. She should include safety considerations the related disclosures and to is a PUFL member of Mundt- and logistical details in order to maintain overall integrity of internal Allen Unit 81 in Bethel, Maine.

44 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IMPACT ALA! NATIONAL COMMITTEE REPORTS CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS: IMPORTANCE OF GOVERNING DOCUMENTS The rules protect us. They provide to present parliamentary direction, articulated, the less likely there will direction in times of chaos and the only time a separate constitution be conflict and confusion. provide a haven of security when is a good idea is when some law Rudyard Kipling called words the challenges are presented. Their requires it. most powerful drug of mankind. importance becomes clear during So, our responsibility is to assure Whether a student, CEO of a moments of greatest unrest. that governing documents contain corporation, or an ALA member at The Constitution & Bylaws critical elements, and to provide any level, the better the command Committee is tasked with one support regarding language, of words and language, the better important purpose: to inform verbiage, and paragraph clarity. As the chance of saying exactly what members about having proper actor Tony Randall said, “Words is meant and understanding what governing documents at all levels. can make us laugh, cry, go to war, others mean. As teams work Originally, a constitution was fall in love.” The power of language through amendments to governing a critical element of governing can never be underestimated, and documents, now more than ever, documents. As times change, so assuring intent is appropriately we must recognize and understand does appropriate action as it relates realized is a critical element when the power of language, the power of to governing documents. Unless writing amendments and revising words, and the importance of our there is some real purpose served documents. Think about how rules when performing our mission. by having two separate documents one word change — “wives” to with one more difficult to amend “spouses” in the ALA’s eligibility than the other, having a separate — dramatically changed the Trish Ward is a 22-year- member of John P. Hand Unit constitution & bylaws is now composition of membership. The 250 in Louisburg, Kan. considered unnecessary. According more words that can be clarified and

JUNIOR ACTIVITIES: CHECK OUT OUR JUNIOR MENTOR TRAINING SERIES www.Facebook.com/ALAJuniors n Getting Started with Juniors the ALA by making their meetings helped our members learn how to informative and fun. Letting Juniors begin working with Juniors and have a hand in leading and planning how to engage them and keep them their meetings goes a long way in interested. Ideas and best practices keeping them interested in the ALA were shared from established, and continuing their membership involved Junior groups. into adulthood. n The Junior Patch Program Our membership is eager to learn Looking into the eyes of our examined procedures for managing how to prepare Juniors in taking Junior members, we see our the Patch Program, as well as the over and becoming leaders who will future leaders. Recognizing that requirements for earning patches. guide our organization. Sharing ideas having mentors for our Juniors We also discussed how to be from established Junior groups seems will strengthen the Auxiliary, the adaptive with the requirements for to have greatly helped some of the national organization started a each age group when needed. newer groups. four-part ALA Academy Live series n Juniors and The American If you were unable to attend one on Junior mentoring. The courses Legion Family answered great of these live webinars, the series is have been well received with many questions as we learned how to available with your member login via questions, from starting a Junior utilize the abilities of all ages of our the ALA Academy portal at www. group to keeping Juniors engaged. Juniors while helping The American ALAforVeterans.org. And, while The Junior Mentor Training Series Legion, Sons of The American you’re in the ALA Academy, be sure encompassed the following topics: Legion, and American Legion to complete the other courses offered. Getting Started with Juniors, the Riders with events. n Junior Meetings taught us Suzanne Knapp is a 53-year Junior Patch Program, Juniors and member of the Auxiliary. She The American Legion Family, and how to keep Juniors interested belongs to Harry Ollrich Unit 4 Junior Meetings. and engaged in the mission of in Mount Clemens, Mich. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 45 for members in the

redesigned• Print awebsite? current year seen the new features membership card • Print membership cards Have you • When their membership from previous years MyAuxiliary sectionexpires of the • Update contact • Whether they are due information Using MyAuxiliary, members for renewal • Add additional addresses can now … • Their prior years’ dues paid • Opt out of national • Their donation history and department (state) Access the following publications and mailings information about themselves: Take the following actions that • The unit they belong to were not previously possible: .org • Member ID number • Pay dues for the current year Veterans • Join date and the previous year • Their membership category, www.ALAfor such as Paid Up For Life (PUFL), State Life Member, Log in today at Honorary Life Member

F A Y M Everyone Wins in e American Legion Family Branding Game ih hi eciing and ineracie hreerond game

Last Updated 05/2020 BUILDING BRAND LOYALTY: THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY Legion Family memer ill comare and dic HOW-TO SHEET A brand is a product or service publicly distinguished from other products and services so that it can be easily BRANDING GAME communicated and marketed. Put simply, the American Legion Auxiliary and The American Legion Family brands are what come to mind when a prospective member, volunteer, or donor hears our organizations’ names. The brand is everything the public thinks it knows about what our organizations offer — both factual and The American Legion Family rand and challenge THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY BRANDING GAME HOW-TO SHEET emotional. Last Updated 05/2020 Purpose/Objective: A brand name is assigned to a distinctive product, service, or concept. The American Legion Family brand 1. LearnLearn more more about about branding branding and and how how it itapplies applies to to the the American American Legion Legion Auxiliary Auxiliary name exists objectively; people can see it. and TThehe American Legion Family. 2. DiscussDiscuss the the importance importance of of branding branding through through review of current company brands. Branding is the process of creating and disseminating the brand name. Branding can be applied to our entire each oher o care or and romoe or rand ih 3. DiscoverDiscover the the potential potential positive positive and and negative neg consequences of branding. corporate identity, The American Legion Family, as well as to individual product and service names, such as 4. LearnLearn about about and and discuss discuss public public perception perception for both members and those who aren’t ALA Girls State and Legion Boys State programs. familiar with our organizationorganization. Brand Promise THE AMERICAN LEGIONFOR FAMILYPRESENTERPRESENTERS BRANDING GAME SCRIPT At its core, a brand is a promise to consumers, or in our case, members and the public. What will our members andout, receive when they volunteer, join, or donate under the brand? What will they experience? How do we interact a ne aarene o ho oher ee Preparation: Print either of the two pprovided logo files (one version for adult members, one for with our local community? • Building Brand Loyaltythe audience h will see Juniors/SonsJuniors of The American Legion) on 8.5x11” paper in color. These images could and that handouts (one versionBranding for Game adult Brand Perceptions Building Brand Loyalty Legion Family also be presented onAfter screen two via presenters a tablet Tor hegive projectorAmerican a branding to reduce overview printing using costs. the Building Brand Loyalty handout, Brands are built by consumers, not companies or organizations. Ultimately, the way consumers perceive either of the two provided • Print either of the twopresenters provided explain .The American Legion Family Branding Game and that the audience will seea brand defines it. It doesn’t matter what we think the brand promises. The only thing that matters is how members, one for Juniors/Sons):Juniors2222 differentdifferent brands. brandsone per attendee with branding information on one side consumers perceive The American Legion brand — Service. Patriotism. Camaraderie and lined worksheet on the other. Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families; and the Sons; brandthe Auxiliary — brand — 1. Welcome, everyone! Thanks for attending today’s meeting! We’re going to play A • Review branding script with presenter. service and sacrifice of Legionnaires and strengthen the four pillars of The American Legion. to honor the The American Legion Family Branding Game The American Legion Family Branding Game today! Weyou hope thinking you’ll abouthave some the brands fun! you you and andBrand Expectations Audience: 2. By the end of this three-roundwww.ALAforVeterans.org game, the goal is to get you thinking about the brands Basedyou on the brand promise, consumers develop expectations for the brand. When they pull their hard-earned Two versions of the branding game (oneknow version and use, for oradult once members,. used, on onea regular for Juniors/Sons) basis, why you are recognize for and promote them, and the how brand youmoney with out of their pockets to donate or take the time to volunteer and join, they assume their expectations for www.Legion.org available on the American LegionLeg Auxiliaryfeel about national them. website We will at then compare and discuss our American Legion Auxiliary andour brand will be met. It’s about how they experience who we are. The American Legion national websiteAmerican at Legion Family brand and challenge you to care for and promote the brand with oecie Brand Persona a new awareness of how others see the ALA and Legion Family as an organization.Rather than asking, “What is a brand?”, a better question might be, “Who is a brand?” Every brand has a Adult members: Everyone walks away from this game as winners!handout that we just reviewed with you, IncludesIncludes 22 logos of well-known company/organization brands. persona. Think of the Legion Family brand as a person. What is that person like? What can one expect when • Building Brand Loyalty interacting with that person? From appearance to personality and everything in between, our brand persona is • Includes a handout for adult3. On members. the back side of your one that consumers will evaluate and judge before they choose to join, renew membership, volunteer their time, ★ there are 22 spaces indicated for each brand name. There are also 22 correspondingdonate their money, or recommend the Legion, ALA, or Sons as the premiere veteran support organizations in members: Junior/Sons/Sons members: spaces to share your awareness of and feelings for each brand – what you think thetheir communities. Learn more about branding and how it • IIncludesncludes 22 logos of brands thatbrand appeal stands to afor younger or what target it means audience. to you. The Brand Elements • Includes a handout for Junior/Sons members. The American Legion Family brand is represented by the intangible elements described above, as well as 4. We will quickly take turns sharing images of famous brand logos or other iconic symbols,tangible elements such as our brand logo, which includes the Legion Family emblems, messaging (slogans, and we’ll ask you to write down the name of the company or organization. PLEASE do Time aallottedllotted for presentation: etc.), packaging, and so on. All of these elements must work together consistently to communicate our brand The game should take a minimum ofnot 45 yell minutes out the with names, up to oneand hour,please depending don’t share on youraudience answers with those besidepromise, you. shape brand perceptions, meet brand expectations, and define our brand persona. We must be careful applies to The American Legion Family. discussion and interaction. to not confuse our audience with multiple changing themes, slogans, and brand designs so that they have a 5. After we get through the 22 logos, we will go back in the same order and ask you to jot , review the handout Building Brand positive and consistent brand experience year after year. starting the down what the brand means to you. AGAIN: Please don’t shout your answers – just Before starting the game: quickly write them down. The American Legion Family Branding Game Script 1 ★ Using with the audience. This will establish the importance of brandingbranding, the intent of the Loyalty 6. And don’t get hung up on your answers. We want to know what first pops into your mind Discuss the importance of branding , presentationpresentation, and establish a baselinewhen of terminology you think ofand that general brand. knowledge Your perception about brandof that brand may be positive, or it may be ADULT MEMBER VERSION names and branding before beginningnegative. the game. Some brands may be new; others may be old. | © The American Legion Family. All rights reserved. 02/2020

Presenting the game: 7.The In American the third Legion round, Family Branding as a Gamegroup, we will share answersBranding to the brand names and what each The game will be played in a series ofcompany three rounds. would Roundslike for you 1 and to 2associate should move with orswiftly, think about their brand. In this round, we through review of company brands. encouraging users to write down firstwant thoughts to hear without what yourdiscussion. thoughts Audience are about interaction each brandbrand. is It’s OK to shout your answers in encouraged in Round 3, as discussionthis on round! impression and brand occurs. Using the Script, review the introduction of the game with the audience. Gameame Script The American Legion Family Branding Game

8. Now,Now, let’s let’s play play the the game! game! www.ALAforVeterans.org ★ s.) 3 | American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters, which is |McDonald www.Legion.org9. I’mI’m going going to to start start by by giving giving an an example exampl of a famous brand icon – we’ll call it the king of Discover the potential positive and negative under (Now show the first logo number one The American Legion National Headquarters | fast food. (Now show the first logo, which is McDonald’s.) ndout and continue to go through 10. YouYou cancan writewrite thethe answersanswers toto thethe brandbrand namename onon lineline number one under “Brand Name.” (Point to the back of the Building Brand Loyalty handout and continue to go through all 22 logos). consequences of branding. 6

quarters www.ALAforVeterans.org American Legion Auxiliary National Head The American Legion Family Branding Game ★ | American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters | www.Legion.org Learn about and discuss public perception The American Legion National Headquarters |

The American Legion Family Branding Game 21 for both members and those who aren’t familiar with our organizations.

Log in to the Members Only section at www.ALAforVeterans.org to download the free game © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 05/2020

46 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IMPACT ALA! NATIONAL OFFICER CANDIDATES 2021-2022

Candidate: National Candidate: Northwestern American Legion Auxiliary President Division National Vice chaplains express our founding President KATHY DAUDISTEL principle of service to God and Department of Kentucky: DEE DEE BUCKLEY Latonia Unit 203 Department of country and celebrate diversity Eligibility: Through father, Minnesota: Ben Krueger among people and faiths. They William Kaelin Jr., U.S. Army Korean War Unit 49/Pequot Lakes also provide spiritual and Era veteran. Eligibility: Through father, Loren V. emotional guidance, sending Lien, U.S. Navy WWII veteran, and son Offices Held: Served in several unit-, dignity and respect to the district-, and department-level positions. Matthew Karvonen, U.S. Navy veteran of National: national vice president; national campaign. occasion. committee chair: Veterans Affairs Candidate: National & Rehabilitation, Children & Youth, Candidate: Southern Chaplain Poppy, National Security, Americanism, MARY CAUTHEN Membership, and Leadership; national Division National Vice President Department of Louisiana: committee vice chair: Junior Activities; Unit 145 NEC and alternate NEC. GABRIELE BARNETT Department of : Eligibility: Through husband Gerhard Cauthen, U.S. Army, Candidate: National Vice Unit 192, Evans Cold War. President Eligibility: Through late husband, Sgt. VICKIE KOUTZ 1st. Class (Ret.) Maurice “Mo” Barnett, a Candidate: National Department of Indiana: U.S. Army Vietnam veteran. Chaplain Boonville Unit 200 CAROL T. ROBINSON Eligibility: Through Department of Ohio: Candidate: Western husband, James “Jim” E. Koutz, U.S. General Daniel “Chappie” Division National Vice Army Vietnam veteran (in country). James Unit 776 President Offices Held: Served in several Eligibility: Through late brother, William TONI GIMPEL unit-, district-, and department-level A. Hawkins, U.S. Army Korean War Department of Idaho: positions. National: NEC, Strategic Plan veteran. Committee, Future Focus Committee; Bonneville Unit 56 — national committee chair: Auxiliary Idaho Falls Candidate: National Emergency Fund, Poppy, Legislative, Eligibility: Through husband, Arthur L. Chaplain ALA Girls State chair/ALA Girls Nation Gimpel, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Vietnam REBECCA (BECKY) director, National Security, Membership, veteran; father, Thomas Keith Bowcutt, MUELLER Constitution & Bylaws, Education, U.S. Navy WWII veteran; and son, Keith Department of Wisconsin: Children & Youth, and Veterans Affairs & M. Gimpel, U.S. Air Force post-Gulf War Krause-Kraft Unit 106 Rehabilitation; national committee vice veteran. Eligibility: Through husband, Clarence chair: Leadership, Community Service, Mueller, U.S. Army Vietnam era veteran; and Junior Activities. As of presstime, no candidate late first husband, Richard Young, U.S. announcement had been received at Marine Corps Vietnam era veteran; and National Headquarters from the Eastern father, Anton Stilp, U.S. Army, 1957-1959. American Legion Auxiliary Division. members elect five national Candidate: National division vice presidents, one The national historian Chaplain from each ALA division. LISA BOYER completes a historical record of Department of Candidate: Central the administrative year in which Pennsylvania: Unit 210 Division National Vice she serves, maintains, and Eligibility: Through son, President updates the historical records of Herbert Dutter, U.S. Army, currently DENISE DELANEY- the American Legion Auxiliary. serving. WROLEN Department of Indiana: Candidate: National Gary Unit 279 Candidate: National Chaplain Eligibility: Through father, George Historian REBECCA VALDIVIA Evans Jr., U.S. Navy World War II CAROL G. CAMPBELL Department of California: veteran, who served in the Pacific; late Department of Virginia: Unit 377 husbands William J. Delaney, U.S. Unit 10 Eligibility: Through Marine Corps Korean War veteran, Eligibility: Through father, husband, Vincent D. Valdivia, U.S. Air and John Wrolen, U.S. Army Vietnam James F. Gallagher Sr., U.S. Army, WWII Force Vietnam War, and father, William A. veteran. veteran. Flanders, U.S. Air Force, Korean War.

STILL ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR ALA YOUTH HERO AWARDS We are so close to our goal of 100 awards for this administrative year! Youth Hero Awards are for youth who demonstrate a physical act of valor, like performing CPR, calling 911 in an emergency, getting people out of a burning house, and more. Download the nomination form today at www.ALAforVeterans.org. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 47 IMPACT ALA! WHAT’S NEW AT NHQ AUXILIARY READER SURVEY GATHERS IMPORTANT INFORMATION Some readers of Auxiliary and social media we welcome your opinion! Email magazine may be receiving a reader n Their engagement with other your thoughts to ALAMagazine@ survey in May. Please fill it out — it information resources ALAforVeterans.org or write us at helps us help you! n A profile of their membership in 3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN Every few years, American Legion the American Legion Auxiliary 46268. Auxiliary National Headquarters n Personal and household Remember: Auxiliary is a conducts a reader survey to learn demographics membership magazine; it’s all about more about our Auxiliary magazine Based on feedback from each you! audience, which articles are most reader survey, we are better able to For the remainder of 2021, read, overall satisfaction with the tailor Auxiliary magazine toward members can expect to see a variety magazine, and more. what you, the readers, want to learn of features covered in the magazine The previous reader survey was about and implement within your to help members with the mission. sent in 2018 electronically and by own units and departments to help In the August and November issues, regular mail. Specific areas of inquiry our veterans, military, and their membership retention will continue to included: families. be a focus. Additional stories include n Recipients’ readership, use, and The survey is sent to a random highlighting the next ALA national opinions of Auxiliary sample of our 600,000-member president, how members’ successes n Their readership and use of the organization. If you don’t get a survey make membership meaningful, and a American Legion Auxiliary website but still want to share your feedback, recap of ALA Girls Nation. ALA UNIT GUIDE BOOK REVISED WITH SEVERAL UPDATES The American Legion Auxiliary inclusion of male spouses.

American Legion Auxiliary Unit Guide Book, which provides n Gender-neutral language to Mission: information, direction to desired be inclusive of our male spouse In the spirit of Service Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support information, and guidance to unit members. The American Legion and honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives members about the history, mission, n Icons highlight important of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. programs, membership eligibility, information for the unit. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, Unit n educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote customs, and operations of an ALA The online version includes patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. unit, has undergone several updates clickable links to referenced Guide to provide important information webpages or Facebook group pages. Book for unit members. Although many The revised Unit Guide Book small changes were made to help can be downloaded for free at American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters REVISED 2021 3450 Founders Road improve the guide, primary changes www.ALAforVeterans.org in the Indianapolis, IN 46268 P: (317) 569-4500 | F: (317) 569-4502 www.ALAforVeterans.org include: MyAuxiliary member portal, and www.ALAFoundation.org n Updated membership eligibility is available for purchase from © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters All rights reserved. 01/2021 Produced in the USA A Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans, Military, that went into effect after the American Legion Flag & Emblem and their Families ALA’s 2019 National Convention Sales at emblem.legion.org or by as a result of the LEGION Act and calling 1-888-453-4466.

ALA Unit Guide Bookoverv-.indd P PLANNING A VISIT TO ALA NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS? CALL AHEAD! Summer is finally here! tour. We would love to show Will you be traveling through you around the building! Indianapolis soon? American We’re happy to make Legion Auxiliary National arrangements to see you safely. Headquarters is receiving visitors by To schedule your upcoming appointment only due to pandemic visit, email ALAHQ@ restrictions. ALAforVeterans.org or call Be prepared for your visit by (317) 569-4500. calling us in advance to schedule a See you soon!

What’s happening in your American Legion Auxiliary unit? Tell us about it at [email protected].

48 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org IMPACT ALA! REFLECTIONS Provided by Mary Anne Casadei, National Chaplain 2019-2021 | www.Facebook.com/groups/ALAchaplains MAY JUNE JULY “May the God of hope fill you with “Oh sing to the Lord a new song, “As for you, my friends, you were all the joy and peace and believing, so for He has done wonderful things. called to be free. But do not let that you may abound in hope by the His right hand and His holy arm have freedom become an excuse for letting power of the Holy Spirit.” gained victory for Him.” your physical desires control you. — Romans 15:13 — Psalm 98:1 Instead, let love make you serve one Hope is a gift from God. We must The question, “Why me?” can be another.” ask for it. It is placed deep in each interpreted two ways. Is it surprised — Galatians 5:13 human heart in order to shed light or amazed? Or does it sound more Freedom of religion is one of our on this life, so often troubled and like anguish? Kris Kristofferson had country’s great values. We are free to clouded by so many situations that a country song titled, Why Me? and choose the faith we follow; we are not bring sadness and pain. it was his biggest hit of his career, forced to follow or worship a certain We need to nourish the roots of selling more than 1 million records. god. We can read of our chosen faith our hope. We need to concentrate The lyrics tell a story of great humility in a public place without fear, we can on God’s closeness and compassion and deep gratitude in asking why he attend our chosen worship service, despite whatever bad we have done. deserves the blessing he’s received in and talk about our faith without There is no corner of our heart that his life. censoring. God’s love cannot get to. Whenever The next time you open your In the Old Testament, Daniel was we make a mistake, God’s love and mouth to ask, “Why me?” will it be in thrown into the lion’s den because mercy is present. praise of God, or will it be in anguish he refused to bow to the king and He is all-forgiving, all-loving, and and resentment? When you change refused to stop praying even though a all-knowing. God’s love will give you your mindset to a “Why me?” of decree against praying was published. peace. God has hopes for us too. He joy and astonishment, you feel deep You may feel uncomfortable when hopes we follow Him. He hopes we appreciation for God’s blessings. bowing your head in prayer in a will embrace His teachings; He hopes You can still give God your distress restaurant because you don’t want we choose good over bad. and confusion — He can handle it. people to look at you. But safety isn’t God is like the father in the parable, But if you find yourself always asking an issue. You do not have to worry who keeps hoping for the return of “Why me?” with self-pity, pause about prison, labor camps, torture, his wayward son (Luke 15:11-32) or to consider your heart. Our hearts or other repercussions. We live in the the shepherd who won’t rest until he should constantly be searching for greatest country in the world. Our finds the lost sheep (Luke 15:5). the path toward thankfulness and freedoms are protected for us; they So, if God hopes, no one should God. are promised to us. lose hope. I will bet that when you take the Seventy-five percent of the world Hope is the incentive to keep mindset of surprise and gratitude faces severe religious restrictions, moving forward. It is the power to when you think “Why me?”, many of and religious persecution exists in keep moving toward the future and a God’s gifts will come to mind. more than 60 countries from their changed and better life. Too often we immerse ourself in government or fellow citizens. Oh, Hope is proof that God’s mercy can self-pity. Once there, it is so easy to how blessed we are to have religious change your life. God’s mercy invites stay there. freedom. America is the melting us to keep looking ahead, and put sin Self-pity has a sort of snowball pot of religious freedom. It doesn’t and evil behind us. effect on us. It just keeps rolling … matter where you chose to hang your “Hope does not disappoint, getting bigger and bigger, deeper religious hat — you are free to do it. because the love of God has been and deeper. At times, it may seem It is a wondrous thing! poured out into our hearts through impossible to overcome it. “Dear God, teach me to be tolerant, the Holy Spirit that has been given “Do not fear, for I am with you; do and to love my brothers and sisters. to us.” not be dismayed, for I am your God. I Teach me to serve my fellow man. — Romans 5:5 will strengthen you and help you with Help me to grow in Your love. “Dear God, thank You for never my righteous right hand.” Amen.” disappointing me. It is my hope that I — Isaiah 41:10 will never disappoint You. I will never “Dear God, I will turn my heart Mary Anne Casadei is a lose hope in You. I know that You toward You and thank You for having PUFL member of Henry P. are always with me. You will never everything under control. I look to Smith Unit 24 in Rome, N.Y. abandon me. Amen.” You with gratitude. Amen.” www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 49 Building ALA brand loyalty Website address using the emblem on your website? Make sure your Email [email protected]. website address is ‘About us’ section branded, i.e., includes You want the mission to be “department” or immediately obvious to your site visitor. “unit” in the address. Not sure what to put in this section? For example, Model yours after the national website, alaunit472.org or which includes who we are, our mission aladeptaz.org. It’s and vision, organizational structure, important to have and more. keywords like these in Also, be sure to include the ALA your website address tagline in materials where appropriate for online searching. — A Community of Volunteers Serving Name and emblem Veterans, Military, and their Families. Have “American Photos Legion Auxiliary” and Have photos of your department BE BETTER BRANDED the emblem at the top of each page, or unit working the mission on your ON YOUR WEBSITE AND both clearly visible. Our emblem is website. And of course, be the main identifier of the ALA, and branded in the photos, whether that’s SOCIAL MEDIA it’s one of our most valuable assets. If you’ve been on the national wearing branded masks, shirts, hats, etc. A few reminders about the American Legion Auxiliary website emblem on your website: Design in the last couple months, you may • The emblem should be Use a clean, simple design with have noticed it’s been updated. The prominently displayed at the top patriotic colors. Remember: Less is site is better branded and clearer with nothing placed above it. The more! Again, feel free to look to the to the public on what we do as an only exception is that the American national site for inspiration in updating organization. It may be time to flag may be placed above the your branded design. update the branding on your unit/ emblem. Social media department website too. • The ALA’s emblem should be Don’t forget about your social media The national site didn’t undergo a legible and large enough to read the pages! For example, use American rebrand — more of a much-needed American Legion Auxiliary name. Legion Auxiliary Unit 19, Midland, TX update. And your site can too! • Do not place the ALA’s emblem versus American Legion Auxiliary Unit, A well-designed, user-friendly on a busy background. which gives you no clue on where the website can help you attract • The emblem should not be unit is located. Part of branding is being new members and serve as a used as a substitution for a letter or clear on who you are, and that includes powerful education, resource, and number, or as a design object or other where you are since our organization communication tool in identifying element. is spread out across the country and your local ALA organization as • Nothing should touch the around the world. Set your profile the “go-to” authority on all things emblem. picture to be the emblem or a photo of related to veterans, military, and • Always identify the unit/ members branded while working the their families in your community. department on your design. mission. Here are a few simple tips Be sure to check out the ALA By having our name, emblem, to update your website/social Branding Guide available at photos, and more easily visible to the media that will enhance branding, www.ALAforVeterans.org for more public, we can better showcase who we which will help reel in prospective information about emblem usage. are, what we do, and why we matter to members, volunteers, and donors: Do you have questions about our local communities.

BRANDING IMPORTANT people’s favorite sports team logo, Not sure where to get your DURING VIRTUAL EVENTS, the name of a business, or a slogan branded items? Check out American SOCIAL DISTANCING associated with a particular cause. Legion Flag & Emblem Sales, As virtual events and social Wearing a mask with the ALA which carries a variety of branded distancing continue, it’s more emblem is an easy way to keep our materials for all American Legion important than ever for members to name and emblem in the public eye. Family members. When buying continue branding themselves to get Branding can also include shirts, from here, all proceeds go back to the ALA’s name out to the public. hats, pins, scarves, jewelry, etc. Get The American Legion Family. To You’ve probably seen face masks creative with ways to show your order your next branded item, visit while at the grocery store with ALA pride! emblem.legion.org.

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Source To receive this offer on the web, you Satisfaction Guaranteed or 79877 Send order to Dream Products, 412 Dream Lane, 79877 Return For Your Money Back P.O. Box 3690, Oshkosh, WI 54903-3690 Code MUST input the source code when ordering ALL THINGS ALA GIRLS STATE speakers to attend who might not have had the time to travel to a specific location. What do you plan to do differently this year? Julia: We will have five full days that will replicate the in-person session as much as possible. Delegates will have the opportunity to enjoy city life and to form friendships with a small number of delegates. Each day, we will have both assemblies and city ALA GIRLS STATE PROGRAMS CONTINUE meetings. TO PROVIDE ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITIES What advice do you have for other For the second year in a row, What worked well in the 2020 programs? ALA Girls State programs across the virtual session? Julia: We suggest that you commit country are thinking “outside the Julia: Last year, we made our the time and resources necessary to box” on how to host a session as the decision in March to have a virtual have a quality program. Remember COVID-19 pandemic continues. program, and our dates were the that your audience is not just going Last year, 10-plus states decided not last week of May. Therefore, we had to be the citizens, but, in many cases, to cancel and transitioned their in- very little time to plan and execute. you will have siblings and parents person sessions into virtual sessions. Our number one goal was to have a watching. This is a great opportunity The staff of these programs knew it session to honor the girls who had for us to promote the American would be impossible to do everything already been selected to attend. We Legion Auxiliary and ALA Girls State. they usually do, so changes were had an abbreviated session using Many other programs have made to host abbreviated programs. Zoom with guest speakers. We have contacted you for advice. What were “When it came time to put a such an amazing staff, that while it the common questions, and how did program together quickly, we had was continuous work to be ready, we you answer them? to make some tough choices about had a very professional three days Q: Will your staff come together in what stayed and what was left on the of ALA Girls State. The evaluations one location to manage the program? table,” said Jenise Gordon, education were overwhelming: “Thank you for A: No. We have no intention of director of Tennessee’s ALA not forgetting us.” getting all staff to the same geographic Volunteer Girls State. What surprised you last year? location. We have been meeting Now, one year later, more Jenise: We were surprised by how virtually via Zoom since last March, programs are planning to host a engaged the girls were in this virtual and it works beautifully for us. virtual session. Even though the hope setting. Many had to drive to public Q: Will you adjust the length of the was to be in person this year, staff [Wi-Fi] hot spots just to participate, program? knew they needed to think about an and even though they may have A: Yes, we typically run the alternative version. To help programs been booted off Zoom due to a program from Sunday to Saturday. prepare for 2021, informational poor connection, they tenaciously This year, the program will run sessions were hosted by ALA continued to join again and again. Tuesday through Friday. Our daily National Headquarters, giving ALA What are the benefits of a commitment will be from around 9 Girls State directors and staff a virtual session? a.m. to 6 p.m., with lots of breaks and chance to learn from each other and Jenise: When delegates, staff, energy shifts to reduce Zoom fatigue. explore technology options. and counselors join ALA Girls State Q: Will you attempt the petitioning ALA Volunteer Girls State virtually, they can join from their process? Director Julia Wells and Education own homes, which really provides A: Yes, we have a committee that Director Gordon hosted a virtual much more access to the program. has worked on the entire election session last year. They share their Additionally, being virtual provides process, and we have a plan to petition insights: more opportunities for “big name” and run elections via Google Forms.

The Samsung American Legion Scholarship returns for 2021. American Legion Boys State and ALA Girls State participants who are direct descendants (or legally adopted children) of wartime veterans are eligible. To apply, go to www.ALAforVeterans.org/Scholarships.

52 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org ALA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS WHERE ARE THEY NOW? JUNIOR MEMBER LOYALTY SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT PURSUES CAREER OF SERVICE IN PHYSICAL THERAPY Anisa people for my personal life goal,” Cornett, 20, a Cornett said. “The way physical sophomore at therapists help — the recovery Texas A&M process, the way they connect with University and people — I really liked that aspect an ALA Junior of the career.” Member Loyalty Scholarship Receiving the ALA Junior recipient, has been an active Member Loyalty Scholarship has WHAT SCHOLARSHIPS member of the American Legion been a big help in Cornett’s journey DO FOR ALA RECIPIENTS: Auxiliary since she was a toddler. in becoming a physical therapist. They help with the cost of tuition. She began by participating in her Paying for an undergraduate and • Tuition rates are always climbing, unit’s flag ceremony on Veterans graduate degree is no small feat, and scholarships help students at Day and Memorial Day each and this scholarship is helping all income levels gain access to a year at age 5 and would only get Cornett and her family get through college education. more involved. Upon attending her undergraduate degree without They give students more time the ALA Texas State Convention, having to take out loans. However, to focus on their studies. Cornett would run and succeed the scholarship also served another • Many students have to work while in becoming the honorary purpose to Cornett — recognition they attend college in order to department Junior secretary, for her hard work and service as an make ends meet. For many, this honorary vice president, and ALA Junior member. can negatively affect their grades, eventually honorary president. “I have been in this it can stop them from graduating Then, upon attending the National organization for as long as I can on time, and it can even force them Southern Division Convention, remember,” she said. “Being to discontinue their education Cornett would also run and recognized and just knowing that altogether. Scholarships give become honorary Junior national all the years paid off was really students the opportunity to work Southern Division vice president. important to me. It just makes me less and study more. Cornett has a strong passion want to stay.” They help lower the debt for serving veterans, military, and Cornett pointed out how of graduating students. their families. With a grandfather, important ALA scholarships are • The Class of 2019 graduated with father, and brother who all served to Junior members, and the huge an average $28,950 in student in the military, Cornett has a impact made by those who donate debt. Scholarships help students close connection to our nation’s and make ALA scholarships graduate by taking out fewer loans heroes. However, she shared that possible. and therefore have less debt as her love for serving others has “I would just thank them so they embark on their new careers. grown deeper during her time much for everything they do for They help inspire students as an ALA Junior member, and this organization. It’s people like to be more philanthropic. it has influenced her decision to them who keep this organization • Students who receive scholarships help others as a career — through up and help support our youth are direct recipients of the physical therapy. and help send people like me to generosity of others, helping to “My personal goal is to help college to advance their education inspire them to give back when people in the medical field, and hopefully get a good career they are financially capable. and by growing up in the ALA at the end of it,” Cornett said. “It’s Sources: University of Hawai’i Foundation, and helping veterans, it kind of probably the best donation you The Institute for College Access & Success instilled that I needed to help could make.”

You can support talented and passionate students like Anisa Cornett by donating to national ALA scholarship funds. Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/Donate. Wanted! If you are a past recipient of an ALA national scholarship, contact us at [email protected]. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 53 Wise PERSON SAID It’s absolutely awe-inspiring how someone who has lost so much can give so much to others. When she was 13 years old, American Legion Auxiliary member Vicky Tomasello’s father, U.S. Navy veteran Robert G. Wankowski Sr., and her 4-year-old brother, Gregory, died in a house fire. Through the years, Vicky lost other loved ones, including amputated 4 inches above the knee. help with the dinners and things. her sister, Valerie, who died in But their love was stronger than I’m in the kitchen cooking, serving, 2002. Their mother, Dolores Anna any difficulties they encountered whatever is needed at the time. We Wankowski, died in 2011 from on their life’s journey together, take care of the veterans. We feel it Alzheimer’s Disease and cancer. Tomasello said. is our duty to provide each of them And her husband of 32 years, She is a veteran’s widow, a decent meal at a decent cost,” she Navy Vietnam War veteran but that doesn’t stop her from explained, adding that she also Allen Tomasello, died in 2018 supporting and honoring other belongs to American Legion Riders from angiosarcoma, cancer of the veterans, servicemembers, and Chapter 137. blood vessels, from Agent Orange military families as an ALA Tomasello is a lifelong member exposure from when he was in member. Tomasello proudly of the ALA. Her eligibility is based Vietnam. serves the Auxiliary’s mission of on the military service of her Tomasello’s life as a military service through her ALA Unit 137 father, who belonged to Post 469 in wife had some challenges; Allen membership in Jacksonville, Fla. Cleveland, Ohio. He served in the experienced PTSD and had his leg “As part of the Auxiliary, I Korean War.

VICKY TOMASELLO the treatments. His anxieties. His what he asked me to do — which Please share nightmares. When he fell out of was to do what he couldn’t. a bit about bed and wasn’t able to get up, I What wisdom can you share your life as helped him up. When it was time about surviving and thriving a military to get his VA benefits and he was when faced with major adversities spouse. too tired and pained to engage in in life? I wasn’t in the years’ long pursuit and follow- What got me through is knowing the Vietnam up, I was his voice. I would never that no matter what I experienced, War. I didn’t cry in front of Allen. I cried in there’s always someone who has it serve. My war the shower. Still, I don’t regret a worse. So deal with what’s in front was at home. I moment of caring for him. It was of you. Try not to hate or stay angry. had to be there my honor to care for him. Try to find the positives and go (Photo: Richard Lane) for my veteran How does staying active in from there. husband when he fought to get the ALA and your local Legion What is the best advice you’ve better in efforts to keep his leg Family honor your husband? received, and from whom? after the cancer diagnosis. I was I was at the post five nights a We are to love one another and the one changing his bandages week cooking and doing what I do for each other. I got that from my after he underwent skin grafts. I could to serve our veterans mom. I learned from the best: my was the one there with him for because my husband couldn’t. I did mom, backed by my dad.

Who inspires you? Do you know someone with an interesting background or spectacular life story? Contact us at [email protected] or (317) 569-4500.

54 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY news LEGION FAMILY who paid the ultimate sacrifice WASHINGTON REPRESENTED ON will be remembered. Pre-race CONFERENCE AND RACETRACK MEMORIAL ceremonies include uniformed COMMANDER’S TESTIMONY DAY WEEKEND military members marching down CONDUCTED VIRTUALLY May in Indianapolis is known the straightway, American flags In the first week of March, for racing, but did you also know being unfurled in the infield, and American Legion Family members that the Indianapolis 500 and events a military flyover as the national logged on to their computers, surrounding the famous race are anthem is performed. The pre- phones, and other devices for steeped in traditions to honor the race also includes a military rifle Washington Conference workshops military? team that fires a three-volley salute and meetings that normally would The Indianapolis 500 and the 500 before a lone bugler plays Taps and be held in person in Washington, Festival traditionally honor veterans America the Beautiful is performed. D.C. As has become the norm in our and servicemembers in several ways Honoring and remembering country, business was conducted during the month. the military doesn’t just happen virtually. This year, The American Legion on race day. The American Legion Commander James W. “Bill” will bring extra attention during participates in the 500 Festival Oxford’s testimony to the House the race to those we serve. That’s Memorial Service at the Indiana and Senate Committees on Veterans’ because The American Legion War Memorial on the Friday before Affairs highlighted how members emblem will be present on the Memorial Day (National Poppy responded to vital needs in their racetrack. The No. 48 IndyCar Day®). The American Legion Family communities during the pandemic. driven by 2013 Indy 500 winner is typically represented in the 500 This included The American Tony Kanaan will prominently Festival Parade the next day. In the Legion’s Buddy Check program, feature The American Legion past, The American Legion national blood drives with The American Family. This is part of a multi-year commander and the American Red Cross, making and purchasing sponsorship agreement between the Legion Auxiliary national president face masks and protective gear, and Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing. have ridden on a float in the parade. providing food for those in need. Before attendees see the Legion You can watch the Indianapolis Oxford also told Congress about Family represented on the track, 500 on Sunday, May 30, on NBC. The American Legion’s involvement veterans and servicemembers Coverage will begin at 1 p.m. with the U.S. Department of will be honored, and those Eastern. Veterans Affairs and the technology company Philips to launch Project during the first challenge at a state ATLAS. Under this project, Legion park near her home in Gladbrook, posts offer a place for veterans to Iowa. have private virtual appointments The American Legion has with healthcare professionals. upgraded 100 Miles for Hope with The American Legion Legislative these changes for the second edition: Agenda: • There are two ways to register. • Address toxic exposure and Through a new app called Kilter or burn pits via American Legion Flag & Emblem • Improve health care for women Sales. veterans 100 MILES FOR HOPE • The registration fee has been • Telehealth/rural health RETURNS cut to $20, while rewarding every • Address the forever war The American Legion’s second participant with a medal. • Citizenship for honorable annual 100 Miles for Hope is • Commemorative 100 Miles for service underway. The program encourages Hope merchandise can be purchased • Pay the Coast Guard American Legion Family members through American Legion Flag & • Close the 90/10 loophole to get active while supporting Emblem Sales to support the V&CF. • Military awards for minority the Legion’s Veterans & Children • Participants can download and veterans Foundation (V&CF). customize their own “race bib” like • Peer support “I am looking forward to once those traditionally worn in 5Ks and • Protect the American flag again supporting the American other races. • Global War on Terrorism Legion Family,” said American For more information on 100 Memorial Legion Auxiliary President Nicole Miles for Hope, visit www.Legion. For more details on each of the Clapp, who walked her 100 miles org/100Miles. priorities, visit www.Legion.org. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 55 MISSION matters ATTRACT AND ENGAGE NON-MEMBER VOLUNTEERS TO HELP ACHIEVE THE ALA’s MISSION OF SERVICE It’s tough to put into words mission-focused events, activities, ALA event and include a callout for how much of a godsend reliable, and outreach. As it turns out, many volunteers. Use well-known social responsible, and hardworking individuals are experiencing a greater media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, non-member volunteers are to level of compassion now. They are and Twitter. Remember to include a the American Legion Auxiliary. looking for ways to make a difference contact name and number, or email Through most of the ALA’s century in the lives of others. The ALA offers address, and be sure to respond to any of existence, volunteers who don’t opportunities to do that. inquiries in a timely manner. belong to the Auxiliary have assisted There are plenty of impactful Traditional media also is an ALA members in achieving our ALA mission-focused projects that option for spreading the word and mission to selflessly serve veterans, non-member volunteers can safely seeking volunteers. Local television military, and their families, mentor participate in, such as tending to a news programs sometimes spotlight youth, and contribute positively to community organizations and tell local communities. There’s something special about their stories. The same is true for many How wonderful is it that there are people who are willing to give of local newspapers. Frequently, papers people willing to give of themselves themselves to help or honor others publish community news, events, and to help or honor others — and and ask for nothing in return. happenings. If you are interviewed for a ask for nothing in return? ALA television news segment or newspaper members understand that because community’s unity garden, or assisting article, consider mentioning who the they, too, are volunteering their at a local food pantry specifically event will help and why the ALA wants time and efforts for a greater good. for veterans, servicemembers, to help them. Speak sincerely and from The American Legion Auxiliary is and military families in need. The the heart. a community of volunteers serving possibilities continue from there. Putting up posters in public places, veterans, military, and their families. When seeking non-member where permitted, is another idea. List Even during the COVID-19 volunteers for Auxiliary events and the basics — the who, what, when, pandemic, the ALA has seen activities, be sure to get the word where, and why. Don’t forget the non-member volunteers step up out well ahead of time. Share the contact info: a telephone number or and help work on our numerous information about your upcoming email address. When the event or activity is over, thank the volunteers for their MAKING THE CASE FOR VOLUNTEERISM participation. Small gestures, such Although there seems to be more people interested in volunteering these as a handwritten thank-you note or days, others may still need to be gently persuaded. To make the case during a phone call, go a long way to show your casual one-on-one conversation — without pressuring the person — talk about appreciation. You might even recruit the people, place, or thing being impacted by the project. Also, consider sharing a new member because of those some of Volunteermatch.org’s “Great Reasons to Volunteer” listed below. extra steps. • Help others • Enjoy a meaningful conversation Allowing interested individuals to • Make a difference • Use your skills in a volunteer with the ALA has another • Find purpose productive way benefit: It allows people to learn more • Feel involved • Develop new skills about the ALA and its members. It’s an • Meet new people • Explore new areas of interest opportunity for the Auxiliary to show • Connect with your community • Meet good people its story instead of only telling it to the • Contribute to a cause that • Expand your horizons public. What people see and experience you care about • Get out of the house tends to make more of an impact on • Make new friends them than what they’re told. While it’s • Feel better about yourself not the intended purpose of seeking help from the community for Auxiliary events and activities, a non-member volunteer could decide to become an ALA member someday if eligibility criteria are met. Even if they don’t join the Auxiliary — or aren’t eligible to do so, non-member volunteers who are compassionate, reliable, and responsible can be invaluable helpers.

56 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org American Legion Auxiliary social media Visit our social media at www.ALAforVeterans.org/social-media

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNITS ACROSS THE COUNTRY CONTINUE TO FIND WAYS TO SERVE VETERANS, MILITARY, AND THEIR FAMILIES.

@VANIHCS Thank you to the Indiana American Legion Auxiliary for their donation of gift bags for our inpatient veterans during National Salute to Veteran Patients Week.

@USO Alaska USO and the American Legion Auxiliary, C. Russell Huber Unit 57 welcomed home servicemembers!

@AmericanLegion AuxiliaryNM ALA Department of New Mexico presented a $300 check for the Veterans Affairs Coffee program.

74 5 9 1 8 3 6 2 3 9 6 2 5 4 7 8 1 Auxiliary 18 2 7 6 3 54 9 Sudoku 9 5 4 1 3 7 6 82 answers from 86 7 4 2 5 1 9 3 2 1 3 8 9 6 4 7 5 page 26: 7 2 1 3 4 9 8 65 36 8 5 7 2 9 1 4 45 9 6 8 1 2 73

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Spread the word about the work your unit is doing. Share pictures on social media and tag us @ALAforVeterans and use #AmericanLegionAuxiliary. www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2021 | Auxiliary magazine 57 THE LAST word e ALA Recruiing lyer or nis

Does your ALA unit host a regular carry-out dinner night, or does your post home provide food for carry-out? Consider adding these flyers to the takeout boxes! They’re convenient, fillable PDFs with an efficient 3-up design for easy printing on a home computer. You can also take them to your local print shop so you’ll always have extras on hand. Start today: 1) Go to the MyAuxiliary member portal at https://member.legion- aux.org/member/ resources/flyer-templates. 2) Download the PDF. 3) Click onto the fillable field at the bottom of the flyer to type in a unit contact person’s name, phone, PASS THE POPPY or email address. 4) Print on color paper (we suggest blue), and cut in thirds. How do American Legion Auxiliary members keep the mission momentum going during a global pandemic? We diffuse our message in digital form, of course! Be sure to visit our 5) Tape a flyer to each social media accounts @ALAforVeterans so you can share the poppy artwork above with takeout box. your followers, friends, and family. Remember: It’s our job “to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars,” as stated in our Preamble. Engage with our social media today so you can be part of the thousands participating in this promotional campaign.

www.ALAforVeterans.org/Join 58 Auxiliary magazine | May 2021 www.ALAforVeterans.org © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 01/2021 e ALA Recruiing lyer or nis

Does your ALA unit host a regular carry-out dinner night, or does your post home provide food for carry-out? Consider adding these flyers to the takeout boxes! They’re convenient, fillable PDFs with an efficient 3-up design for easy printing on a home computer. You can also take them to your local print shop so you’ll always have extras on hand. Start today: 1) Go to the MyAuxiliary member portal at https://member.legion- aux.org/member/ resources/flyer-templates. 2) Download the PDF. 3) Click onto the fillable field at the bottom of the flyer to type in a unit contact person’s name, phone, or email address. 4) Print on color paper (we suggest blue), and cut in thirds. 5) Tape a flyer to each takeout box.

www.ALAforVeterans.org/Join © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 01/2021 Nonprofi t Org. U.S. Postage Paid Bolingbrook, IL Permit No. 2046

American Legion Auxiliary National Headuarters 0 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 28

A Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans ilitary and teir amilies M G e ossiiliies are enless Monthly giving is one of the best ways you can support our nation’s heroes and your fellow Auxiliary members. It’s easy to budget, comes out automatically each month, and you can direct it to a fund that means the most to you! A MONTH: Provides art supplies to help veterans heal through artistic expression A MONTH: Builds shelves for a veterans food pantry A MONTH: Provides a washer for a veterans homeless shelter A MONTH: Gives Auxiliary Emergency Fund grant assistance to an ALA member in need after disaster strikes A MONTH: Provides one ALA Junior member a college scholarship These are just a few ways your monthly gift could help veterans, military, and their families. To start your monthly gift, go to www.ALAforVeterans.org/Monthly-Gifts. Remember: You’re not just giving our nation’s heroes long-term support — you’re providing the kind of help they need…when they need it!