A Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families - Responding to new challenges
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www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 $3.75 Responding to new challenges A Community of Volunteers Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families
Coming Soon: Even More Training
Opportunities for Members!
ALA adding virtual events
to its lineup
You’ve heard of ALA Academy, full of free courses on subjects
like enhancing leadership skills, why branding matters,
fundraising tips, and more. But you may not be aware of our
NEW virtual training opportunities:
★ Mission delivery ★ ALAMIS how-to
★ Junior leaders ★ ALA Girls State information
★ VA Voluntary Services
… and more!
Stay tuned to ALA’s social media channels
@alaforveterans for more information!
© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 05/2020
contents
FEATURES IN EVERY ISSUE
28 ALA FULFILLS MISSION 4 NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S 54 A WISE PERSON SAID
DURING COVID-19 MESSAGE 55 LEGION FAMILY NEWS
Even a pandemic won’t stop 6 BEHIND THE SCENES 56 MISSION MATTERS
ALA members from serving 7 FROM OUR READERS 57 SOCIAL MEDIA
others. 8 JUNIOR MEMBERS 58 THE LAST WORD
34 HOW YOUR MEMBERSHIP 10 I AM THE ALA
HELPS PROFESSIONALLY 13 IT’S ALL GOOD
Your ALA membership offers 38 IMPACT ALA!
a lot in addition to important
50 BUILDING ALA
mission outreach support. BRAND LOYALTY
48 AEF: HERE TO HELP 52 ALL THINGS
DURING TIMES OF NEED ALA GIRLS STATE
The Auxiliary Emergency Fund 53 ALA SCHOLARSHIP
can help when members need RECIPIENTS: WHERE
it most. ARE THEY NOW?
ON THE COVER: The American Legion Family is proudly represented on face masks made by Auxiliary member Kathy White
of Georgia. ABOVE: ALA member Judy Wothke of Zionsville Unit 79 in Indiana works with members of the post home’s Legion
Family and local Boy Scouts during preparations for placement of 2,500 U.S. flags on veterans’ headstones at Lincoln Memory
Gardens Cemetery in Whitestown, Ind., over Memorial Day weekend (photos: Aaron Meyer/ALANHQ).
www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 | Auxiliary magazine 3
FROM THE NATIONAL
President our limitations, while in
the midst of crises and
178 has also been sewing hundreds
of masks for the VA hospital in
challenges. We double- Charleston.
down on our resolve, put Auxiliary members have taken time
our resourcefulness and to look out for one another, calling
creativity into overdrive, other ALA members to ask how each
and find alternate ways to other is doing and to offer messages
safely support and honor of hope and positivity. I made many
veterans, military, and their phone calls, too. It was wonderful
families. talking with Auxiliary members, and I
Serving our mission felt as if we encouraged one another.
in these uncertain and This telephone outreach was
unnerving days of highlighted in early April during the
the COVID-19 global ALA’s special Week of Caring and
pandemic is no different Sharing, which mirrors the Legion’s
than that. ALA members “Buddy Check” campaign. What made
and our non-member this outreach effort even more terrific
volunteers have been is that some ALA members continued
finding ways to deliver with their calls after the first week of
selfless service — all while April. Way to go! Learn more about
abiding by social distancing Week of Caring and Sharing at
recommendations, safety www.ALAforVeterans.org.
guidelines, and local Other parts of our American
restrictions. We are also Legion Family stepped up during
finding ways to help in the pandemic. American Legion
our communities with National Commander Bill Oxford
needs stemming from announced the April 2020 “Month of
CARE AND ENCOURAGEMENT: stringent stay-at-home orders or Hope” campaign, which was aimed at
Calling ALA members to see how recommendations from government helping those impacted by COVID-19.
they’re doing, and sharing messages leaders and health officials. Commander Oxford also addressed
of positivity and hope during the For example: how Buddy Checks have helped many
Auxiliary’s Week of Caring and
• The ALA Department of veterans get through the challenges
Sharing April 1-7 in the midst of the
COVID-19 global pandemic.
Iowa answered the call when Iowa presented by the pandemic, including
Secretary of State Paul D. Pate isolation resulting from the social
World wars, terrorism, medical asked the department to make distancing implemented to slow the
crises, and numerous natural 10,000 masks for residents and spread of the disease. In addition,
disasters. Through all of that, and staff at the Iowa Veterans Home Commander Oxford encouraged
more, American Legion Auxiliary in Marshalltown, Iowa. Many Legionnaires to consider donating
members have worked tirelessly in ALA members throughout the blood as the need grew.
support of, and reverence to, our department contributed to this I am proud of all that our
nation’s veterans, military, and their effort. members of the ALA, and the entire
families for more than 100 years. • ALA Unit 178 and American Legion Family, are doing to fulfill
Helping and honoring those we serve Legion Post 178, both of Murrells our common mission of caring for
— in good and bad times — has Inlet, S.C., acquired and delivered America’s veterans, military, and their
always been the ALA’s mission. two full Jeep- and trailer-loads of families. We are in this pandemic
ALA members assess the needs bleach, paper towels, Styrofoam together, and together is how we get
and wishes of those we serve. containers, plastic utensils, and through it. Please continue finding safe
Adapting if needed, to overcome boxes of exam gloves to the VA ways to help others, showing kindness
obstacles that may arise during hospital in Charleston. This was and compassion as we, collectively and
tumultuous times, we selflessly do done in response to a call for individually, forge our path forward.
what we can for them. assistance from the Veterans
In tough times, ALA members Administration in Charleston. Unit
don’t dwell on the obstacles to fulfilling and Post 178’s effort was helped
our mission of selfless service. We along by Sunrise Beverages, a local Nicole Clapp
focus on what we can do, not on business in Surfside Beach. Unit National President
4 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.org
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BEHIND THE scenes
NOTES FROM NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
A Community of Volunteers
Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families
August 2020
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
GROWING: National staff have been together with members since the ALA was Webmaster
established a century ago. Travis Perkins
Communications Senior Writer
It’s summer, and ALA National good seemed to be on the horizon. Landa Bagley
Headquarters staff are typing away on Now fast forward to the present: I got Communications Specialist
computers in their kitchens, working through this, you remind yourself, Sara Fowler
Communications Specialist
on reports spread across the coffee and you’re a stronger person today Jennifer Donovan
table, and checking emails from their because of it. Communications Coordinator
phones. But we’re not unique — we In some ways, maybe that’s the Alexa Freeman
join the rest of the world in adapting outlook we should have — one Contributing Writers
Sydney DeLong
to new routines during the COVID-19 that focuses only on that I got
2019-2020 National Officers
pandemic. through this element. Thinking this National President Nicole Clapp
Auxiliary magazine goes to press way can be tough for most of us National Vice President Kathy Daudistel
about a month and half before copies since there’s so much unknown out National Secretary Linda Boone
National Treasurer Marybeth Revoir
start reaching members’ mailboxes. there, or we’re currently in a situation
Right now, as this issue is being that doesn’t seem to be improving. ADVERTISING
James G. Elliott Company Inc.
finalized for the printer, there’s a But when we look to what we did NEW YORK (212) 588-9200
lot of uncertainty and unrest in the accomplish and how we persevered, DETROIT (248) 530-0300
CHICAGO (312) 236-4900
world. 2020 has provoked feelings of the positives aren’t out of reach. LOS ANGELES (213) 624-0900
anxiety, fear, stress, anger, sadness, Times may seem crazy and scary ADDRESS CHANGE:
and most of all, questions. What will and wrapped up in one big ball Email name, previous address, new address
and membership ID (9-digit number above
we do to get through this? How will labeled with a giant question mark. your name on magazine label) to:
we improve? Things always seem to But we’ve got to remember: We will alamishelp@ALAforVeterans.org
be getting worse — can anything be get through this. Contact Us: ALA National Headquarters
3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
positive? It’s been said that laughter is the (317) 569-4500 | www.ALAforVeterans.org
The American Legion Auxiliary best medicine. Jokes may be the last email: ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org
turned 100 last November. You could thing on your mind right now, but American Legion Auxiliary Magazine is published
say we’ve been through a lot in our if studies tell us it’s important to quarterly by the American Legion Auxiliary
with a yearly non-refundable allocation of $3.40
century of service. In fact, when we recognize that levity in tough times from membership dues. Letters, unsolicited
were first being established as an can be a good thing, then maybe it’s articles and photographs are not guaranteed
to be published or returned and may be edited.
organization, the world was slowly worth considering. See www.ALAforVeterans.org/Media/Magazine-
overcoming another major health Here’s one that’s rimshot-worthy: Submissions for further details. Opinions
expressed in this publication may not necessarily
event — the 1918 influenza pandemic. “I am not sure how many cookies you represent policy or positions of the organization.
Think back to a time when have to eat to improve your mood. So Advertisements do not reflect endorsement
by the organization.
you felt seemingly powerless. far, it’s not 27.”
Non-member Subscriptions
Everything happening around you What keeps you in good Send $15 (checks only) to address above,
was crumbling, spirits? Tell us at ALAmagazine@ Attention: Accounting
Payable to: National Treasurer, ALA
and nothing ALAforVeterans.org.
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
We would love for you to visit smoking doesn’t just affect the
our Facebook page and see what a smoker; it affects everyone in the
difference the last couple of months room. I do, however, think that
have made, even with COVID-19. smokers should not be treated like
We try to post at least twice a week, second-class citizens. A place for them
even if it’s not about our specific to sit comfortably and smoke should
unit. Search on FB by looking up be provided.”
“American Legion Auxiliary Unit — Theresa Vodika
1980 Woodland Park, CO.”
— Cynthia Sipes, Colorado “I think all American Legion
WHY I BECAME A PAID UP posts should be nonsmoking. We
FOR LIFE MEMBER EDITOR’S NOTE: Great job on using need a healthy environment for
My family has a lot of veterans social media to promote and increase families, and nonsmoking only makes
dating all the way back to the Civil your presence in your community! sense.”
War and a Union soldier in the — Sherri Doody McGee
Cavalry. I have veterans in World WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
War I, World War II, Korea, and ON THE ALA BLOG “Post 550 in Pilot Point, Texas,
Vietnam. My father and mother Content from Auxiliary went nonsmoking last year, and it was
were lifetime members of the magazine is often published via a difficult at first. A few smokers do not
Legion and Auxiliary. What better digital version through the ALA come anymore at all, but we did make
way to honor my family of veterans blog. Here’s what our followers had an outdoor, covered smoking area
than to be a PUFL. I love doing to say about stories that appeared with a patio heater and ceiling fan. It
projects for veterans hospitals in the May magazine: has benefited our facility more than it
and sending Christmas cards to has hindered it. People still socialize
the USO. Support the Auxiliary Blog post: ‘Poppy brings back and just go outside to smoke.”
and help our veterans [by being] a memories, reminds to honor — Mary Pelzel Rawls
PUFL. servicemembers’
— Patricia Lindsten, Wisconsin “Our poppy queen, having a “Way overdue.”
poppy distribution. We don’t sell — Emma Munoz
COLORADO UNIT INCREASES them, we accept donations and give
SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE back to the veterans’ needs. The red “I am fine with the main dining
We are growing, maybe not in poppy is made by the veterans and room being smoke free. Leave the
numbers yet, but in our ability to be for the veterans.” bar smoking. I stopped going to
seen by our community! — Lydia Zazueta mine because they went smoke free.
We are starting to be seen and Another club allows smoking at the
understood by our community of “Almost 40 years ago, I won bar only. They now have my regular
Woodland Park, Colorado. We have first place in a contest from the business.
embraced our Facebook page and American Legion Auxiliary — Kitty Kovacs
are starting to post more and more. National for poppies! I have never
The involvement is great, and now forgotten the meaning of poppies “Sure would be nice if all posts
even members of our community as a result or the organization! went nonsmoking. As we travel
who are not eligible to join are Thank you for all you do and have around the country, there still many
helping our programs. continued to do over the years!” that still allow smoking inside.”
We have started to post more — Judy Johnson Cockle — Evelyn McMahon
events, photos, veteran and family
resources, and even members in Blog post: ‘Should your post CORRECTION
the spotlight. We went from less home go nonsmoking?’ In our May A Wise Person Said
than 50 likes to 103 likes. Our “I would physically not be able to column, we inadvertently printed
social media presence is becoming go to a smoking post anymore with Sioux Falls as being in North Dakota.
an asset for us. my breathing issues. Unfortunately, The city is located in South Dakota.
WE WANT TO Email: ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org Story and Photo Submissions: Visit
HEAR FROM you or send letters to: ALA National Headquarters
3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
www.ALAforVeterans.org/Magazine
for more details.
www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 | Auxiliary magazine 7
JUNIOR members she said.
The masks were originally made for
the Finch household, and then friends
and others asked for one. She has made
more than 20.
“We have received quite a few
thank-yous from people and even some
money as a token,” Finch said.
Her brother, Alex, has also helped
with the masks.
“The project really brought my
brother and me closer together,” she
said. “We learned that as a team, we are
pretty great.”
STEPPING UP: Junior members Ashley Colegrove (left) and Olivia and Chloe Brozovsky Having some experience with
help make cloth masks during the coronavirus pandemic. making masks, Finch has her own
advice to offer.
SEWN WITH LOVE “Have patience and have the time,”
Junior members make masks in times of COVID-19 she said. “It is pretty time consuming.”
Like their senior member you from each person who receives
counterparts, ALA Juniors across a mask. Ashley Colegrove, Florida
the country stepped up in a big “It made me feel good to be able “I truly believe in giving back to our
way to assist with the COVID-19 to help my community without nation’s heroes, our veterans,” she said.
pandemic through making face leaving the house,” Olivia said. “I love being able to volunteer for the
masks, serving as a learning lesson Chloe agreed. local veterans organizations.”
for younger members by helping their “It made me happy to help out,” Colegrove, 15, has been making face
communities during a crisis. she said. “I liked doing it and will sew masks for the James A. Haley Veterans’
Auxiliary magazine takes a look at more if people ask me to.” Administration hospital in Tampa,
Juniors from different states who have With some experience under Fisher House, the Baldomero Lopez
focused their time and efforts on a their belts, the girls offer other State of Florida Veterans’ Nursing
Service Not Self mindset. Juniors advice if they take on a face Home, and the All Children’s Hospital
mask project. in St. Petersburg.
Olivia and Chloe Brozovsky, “All of these wonderful
Nebraska “I truly believe in giving back organizations have been very grateful
Olivia, 11, said she and her sister to our nation’s heroes, and have sent thank-you notes,”
have been making masks for family, our veterans...I love being Colegrove said. “It was so nice to see
friends, their church, and other able to volunteer for the local that they appreciated the work I put
people who needed them. veterans organizations.” into the masks.”
“We bought yards of different She’s made over 200 face masks to
colors of cotton fabric and elastic,” she Olivia said to be sure to follow the help places in need.
said. “We looked online for a pattern stitch guidelines. Like others, Colegrove has taken up
and followed the directions for cutting “Have fun doing it, and it doesn’t the task of mask-making by hand.
and sewing.” matter if you mess up,” Chloe added. “I had to learn how to sew, which
Chloe, 10, added that their dad, was interesting,” she said. “My father
Brent, helped them put the pattern on Kali Finch, Minnesota taught me after learning from a friend
a large piece of fabric. “In this pandemic, it means a lot who is sewing masks for local health
“We cut two pieces the same size,” to help since most people won’t go care providers.”
she said. “We put the wrong sides out in public anymore unless they A love for her community and
together and pinned one end of the have a mask on,” she said. “This way, giving back inspired her to make
elastic to the edge of the fabric to sew they feel more comfortable getting masks.
over, then pinned the other end of the their groceries and other necessities.” “When the coronavirus hit, many
elastic and sewed. We did this on both Finch has made the masks using of the organizations I volunteer for
sides. Then we turned it right side out. a sewing machine and fabric bought no longer accepted help,” she said. “I
We pinned three pleats and sewed from Walmart and old clothes that had to figure out a way to give back by
them down. It was finished and ready were washed and then sewn together. volunteering from home if possible.”
to wear!” “The fact that all the stores sold In addition to ALA Juniors, other
The girls have made more than 35 out of masks inspired us to make our members have also stepped up to help.
masks and counting, getting a thank- own since we couldn’t buy any,” Read more on page 28.
8 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.org
VIRTUAL CONNECTIONS but as with anything new and JUNIOR ‘ADOPTS’
CREATE STRONG BONDS several people using technology, VETERAN, FORMING
DURING PANDEMIC there can be difficulties. FRIENDSHIP
“We are spread out over a large
Focus stays on mission When Pennsylvania Junior member
area where internet and cell phones
in online world Mazie Shipe met Joy, a World War II
With the coronavirus making don’t always work, and some girls U.S. Navy veteran, in her local nursing
it impossible to hold meetings in had a hard time trying to connect,” home, she was
person, ALA Junior members have McDaniels said. “It allowed us to simply dropping
continued to stay on track with their meet while social distancing, and it off a gift bag as
projects, switching their meetings to saved some people from traveling part of a unit
the virtual world. over an hour.” project.
Using a variety of technology such One recommendation to other The two sat
as cell phones, computers, and tablets, units with Juniors who are holding and talked, and
Juniors of the 7th District in New virtual meetings is to invest — just Joy asked Shipe
York adapted to the times so they a little. to come back and
could continue helping our veterans, “Free platforms often only allow visit as she had no
military, and their families. They held you to have 30 to 40 minutes,” living relatives to
their first online meeting in March. said Terri Wallace, 7th District visit her.
During a regular in-person president. “Premium accounts allow Shipe had
meeting, members typically conduct more time for discussion. Adding no idea what
the meeting, do a craft, and eat a slides that are shared also allows for this simple request would turn into —
snack. more participation.” “adopting” this veteran.
“During crafts and snacks, we get The Juniors appreciated the “Now I go every couple of months
to talk to each other and build our longer time frame for interaction. to visit her, and we share stories of
friendships,” said Junior member “Our district president hosted her youth and things she experienced
our meeting in her premium Zoom during World War II,” she said. “I enjoy
account, giving us longer time our visits as much as she does.”
where we could talk to each other,” After attending the Baltimore
said Junior member Cassie Seacat. national Junior meeting last fall, Shipe
Hoping to get back to in- knew Joy’s birthday was coming up and
person meetings on a regular wanted to visit her for the occasion.
basis, the Juniors have enjoyed the “I gave her the pocket flag and the
opportunity to still meet virtually poppy bag and also made her favorite
during the pandemic. chocolate biscuits she was wanting,” she
Looking ahead, the district now said.
knows it can use the virtual option Shipe said adopting a veteran is a lot
MacKenzie McDaniels. “Virtual in other times as needed. of fun and very educational.
meetings are quicker, but we don’t get “Our district covers a large area, “I am glad I had the opportunity
to talk causally or do big crafts as a and winter weather sometimes to meet Joy,” Shipe said. “She has
group for our veterans.” causes low attendance because we many stories to tell, and since she was
Continuing to meet, even if may have to travel over an hour,” born so long ago, it lets me know how
virtually, is vital for the unit members. McDaniels said. “We may offer girls different we have things today. Makes
“It is important for the girls who need to travel or don’t have me appreciate all of the freedoms our
to meet to build relationships, transportation the opportunity to veterans have fought for.”
knowledge about our great join the meeting portion, and this She still regularly visits Joy.
organization, build leadership, and will allow us the opportunity to For other Juniors who may want
work as a team to complete activities,” visit with our district Juniors more to adopt a veteran, Shipe highly
said Colleen McDaniels, 7th District often. Also, if we have a storm, we recommends it.
Junior chair. now have another option instead of “They have a lot of things you can
She said the meetings went well, canceling.” learn if you take the time,” she said.
GOOD DEED, YOUTH HERO AWARD WINNERS SHARE THEIR STORIES
Created in 2002 by the ALA national Children & Youth Committee, the Youth Hero and Good Deed awards are
presented annually throughout the year to recognize the heroism and helpfulness of youths under age 18.
Junior members Kyra Webb and Tamika Lode, both 13 of Montana Unit 70, are two of those Good Deed Award winners.
Learn more about these winners and the awards on the ALA blog at www.ALAforVeterans.wordpress.com.
www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 | Auxiliary magazine 9
I AM THE ALA
“Part of my motivation is knowing I am part of one
of the greatest volunteer organizations in the country … .”
CAROLE BALDWIN
As a young Why is it important to support pieces — done by veterans who are
girl, American and honor America’s veterans, being treated at VA facilities. They
Legion Auxiliary military, and their families? create their art as forms of expression,
member Carole Our veterans and military rehabilitation, and treatment to help
Baldwin didn’t quite have protected the citizens of the them recover and cope with physical
understand why United States and our way of life. and emotional challenges. The national
her father, World That takes enormous courage, deep festival lasts a week and includes
War II U.S. Army commitment, and a bravery that most exhibits and a live stage show for these
veteran William of us will never comprehend. Gaining talented artists and performers. I
R. Vernotico, perspective and understanding of attended NVCAF when it was held in
sometimes went into rages. what our veterans experienced helps Buffalo, New York. The live stage show
Baldwin didn’t understand the us appreciate more fully the sacrifices moved me to tears; it was an experience
fury that would occasionally erupt they made for all of us. Relatives of that will forever stay in my heart and
in her father, at times resulting servicemembers and veterans need soul!
in him tearing up the house to be recognized and supported, too. Do you have advice for new
and doing “other things,” she They serve along with the military ALA members who might feel a bit
explained. personnel or veteran in their families overwhelmed by the different things
She remembers her dad talking because they also sacrifice a lot. the ALA does for veterans, military,
about being shell-shocked, but she As an ALA member, what keeps and their families?
thought that meant an artillery you motivated? Take it slow. Get to know your fellow
shell exploded near him. Part of my motivation is unit members and officers. Volunteer
“It wasn’t until my father passed knowing I am part of one of the when you can. Educate yourself on the
away at 62 years old — and I joined greatest volunteer organizations in programs, one at a time.
the American Legion Auxiliary the country, and that I give back
— that I realized he suffered from to veterans, military, and their AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT:
PTSD that was never diagnosed or families in some small way. Also, I Unit 28, Millsboro, Del.
treated. This realization broke my get to meet ALA members from all
ELIGIBILITY THROUGH:
heart,” said Baldwin, of ALA Unit over the world. I witness greatness, World War II veteran
28 in Millsboro, Del. commitment, and dedication that I William R. Vernotico, father
“As an ALA member, I am so very honored and proud to be (U.S. Army)
learned about veterans’ issues a part of! YEARS IN THE ALA: 16
and rehabilitation. And, I met What is one of your favorite
ALA ACTIVITIES:
other veterans who may have ALA mission-oriented activities or
Unit 28 President (Millsboro, Del.):
gone through similar things that outreach programs? 2008-2011
my father did after he returned I love our VA&R (Veterans Affairs Department Historian (Delaware):
home from war. All of this became & Rehabilitation) program and related 2010-2011
my reason and my passion for activities and outreach. One of my Eastern Division Poppy Chairman:
recognizing, honoring, and helping favorite events is the annual National 2014-2015
veterans, military, and their Veterans Creative Arts Festival, Eastern Division Community
families,” she added. which is co-presented by the ALA in Service Chairman: 2016-2017
Eastern Division VA&R Chairman:
What does your ALA partnership with the U.S. Department 2017-2018
membership mean to you? of Veterans Affairs. NVCAF features Eastern Division Leadership
My membership honors the creative works — such as paintings, Chairman: 2018-2019
military service of my father and leatherwork, writing, dance, music, Eastern Division Children
his fellow veterans. and theatrical performance arts & Youth Chairman: 2019-Present
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 ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org or (317) 569-4500.
10 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.orgS
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Everyone Wins in The American
Legion Family Branding Game
With this exciting and interactive three-round game,
Last Updated
05/2020
BUILDING BRAND LOYALTY: Legion Family members will compare and discuss
THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY
THE AMERICA
N LEGION FAM
ILY BRANDIN
G GAME HOW
-TO SHEET A brand is a product or service
communicated and marketed.
brands are what come to mind
publicly distinguished from other
Put simply, the American Legion
when a prospective member,
products and services so that
it can be easily
Auxiliary and The American Legion
Family
The American Legion Family brand and challenge
each other to care for and promote our brand with
names. The brand is everything the public volunteer, or donor hears our organizations’
Auxiliary emotional. thinks it knows about what our
American Legion organizations offer — both factual
jective: applies to the and
ng and how it
05/2020
Last Updated
Purpose/Ob about brandi . A brand name is assigned to
1. Learn more . t company brands a distinctive product, service,
Legion Family through review of curren name exists objectively; people or concept. The American Legion
and Thehe American branding quences of brandi
ng. can see it. Family brand
importance of neg ve conse members and those who
aren’t
a new awareness of how others see us.
2. Discuss the potential positive and negati for both
Branding is the process of creating
and disseminating the brand
the tion corporate name.
3. Discover and discuss
public percep identity, The American Legion Branding can be applied to our entire
GAME SCRIPT ALA Girls State and Legion Boys Family, as well as to individual
product and service names, such
4. Learn about our organization. NDIN G State programs. as
BRA
familiar with ON FAMILY Brand Promise
THE AME RICAN LEGI n for adult memb
ers, one for
ENTER RS At its core, a brand is a promise
: files (one versio FOR PRES These image
s could to consumers, or in our case,
members and the public. What
Preparation of the two p provided logo paper in color. y handout,
receive when they volunteer,
) on 8.5x11” g costs. join, or donate under the brand? will our members
• Print either of The American Legion reduce printin g Brand Loyalt with our local community?
see What will they experience? How
projector to ng using then Buildin
for adult audience will do we interact
via a tablet orgive a and that the
The American Legion Family Branding Game
Juniors/Sons
s brandiy hando uts ew
overvi (one versio
onGame
one side
ted on screen ters
Building Brand
Loyalt Family Brand ationing Brand Perceptions
also be presen twoAfter two
provid edpresen Americ branding inform
an Legion
ee with Brands are built by consumers,
Print either of the presen ters explain
): one perThe
T attend
to play not companies or organizations.
Ultimately, the way consumers
• for Juniors/Sons
s
nt brands. g! We’re going
a brand defines it. It doesn’t matter
what we think the brand promises. perceive
members, one eet on differe
22 the other. attend ing today’s meetinhope you’ll have some
fun! consumers perceive
The American Legion brand — The only thing that matters is
how
worksh s for We Service.
and lined presenter. everyone! Thank today! Community of Volunteers Serving Patriotism. Camaraderie; the
ng script with
1. Welcome, Branding Game you Veterans, Military, and their Families; Auxiliary brand — A
g about the brandsservice
objectives:
• Review brandi Americ an Legion Family s/Sons ) are
you thinkin you
and sacrifice of Legionnaires
and strengthen the
and the Sons brand —to honor
the
four pillars of The American Legion.
The
memb ers, one for
game, goal is to getand recognize them, and how
theJunior
for adult ound eterans.org why you Brand Expectations
ry and
Audience: ng game (one end nof this
theversio
three-r
e at www.AaLAforV regular basis, an Legion Auxilia Based
of the brandi 2. By ry nationalor once used, on
websit discuss our Americ te the brand
with on the brand promise, consumers develop
expectations for the brand. When
Two versions American Legion Leg know and use,
Auxilia
egion. Weorg.
will then compare and you to care for and promo zation
money
. out of their pockets to donate
or take the time
they pull their hard-earned
available on
the
al websit feel
www.L
e atabout them. and challenge Legion Family
as an organi our brand will be met. It’s about to volunteer and join, they assume
their expectations for
Legion nation Family brand the ALA and
how they experience who we
are.
The American American Legion of how others see
★ Learn more about branding and how it
. s! Brand Persona
a new awarenessanization brands game as winner ed with you,than
Adult members: well-known company/orgaway from this we just review
Rather asking, “What is a brand?”, a
ess 22 logos of Everyone walks y handout that also 22 correspondin g
persona. Think of the Legion Family brand
better question might be, “Who
is a brand?” Every brand has
nclude
• Includ adult members. g Brand Loyalt There are the as a person. What is that person a
a handout for side of your Buildin brand name.
interacting
– what you think one that consumers
with that person? From appearance like? What can one expect when
• Includes 3. On the back spaces indicated for eachce. s for each brand
to personality and everything
will evaluate and judge before in between, our
there are 22 a young of and feeling
audien donate their money, or recommend they choose to join, renew membership, brand persona is
l to your aware
ness
er target the Legion, ALA, or Sons as the volunteer their
members: premiere veteran support organizationstime,
applies to The American Legion Family.
Junior/Sons brands thatspace s to share
appea means to you. iconic their
symbo ls,
communities.
nclude ess 22 logos of members.
stands for or what it logos or other do
in
• Includ Junior /Sons
brand s brand . PLEAS E
a handout for g images of famou ny or organizationbeside The
The Brand Elements
• Includes quickly take turns sharinthe name of the compace
on audien those
you.American
Legion Family brand is represented
We will down depen ding rs with
n:4. you upto write
to one hour, share your answe tangible elements such as our by the intangible elements described
llotted d for presentatio um ofand 45 we’ll
minute asks with please don’t and ask you
jot
topackaging, brand logo, which includes the above, as well as
Time allotte take a minim names, and etc.), and so on. All of these elements Legion Family emblems, messaging
not yell out the the same order answers promise, (slogans,
★ Discuss the importance of branding
– just shape brand perceptions, must work together consistently
The game should will go back in to communicate our brand
sion and interaction.
throug h the 22 logos, we : Please don’t shout your
Brand to not confuse our audience with
meet brand expectations, and
define our brand persona. We
discus get AGAIN g multiple changing themes, slogans, must be careful
5. After we means tothe you. handout Buildin positive and consistent brand and brand designs so that they
whatGame the brand
Script, review of the experience year after year. have a
g the game: down ng, the intent your mind
tarting
Before startin Branding write them down. ance of brandi
ng first pops into
an Legion Family establ quickly ish the import general knowledge about brand to know what e, or it may be
Using The Americ This will rs. We want may be positiv 1
the audience. ology and on your answe of that brand
termin get hung up
through review of company brands.
Loyalty with a baselin e ofdon’t Your perception
and establish 6. Andthe game. think of that brand.be new; others may be
old.
presentation, ing
ng before beginn when you each
names and brandi brands may , names and what we
negative. Some ing Game 1 and 2 should
move answe rs to the brand
swiftly
In this round, ADULT MEMBER VERSION |
© The American Legion Family.
Family . Rounds share isabout their brand.
All rights reserved. 02/2020
will tion
a group, we
Brand
game: roundsround,tas ce interac
with orBrand think ing answers in
Presenting the played in a series three Audienate to shout your
of thecan Legion
The Ameri third withou sion. associ
be 7. In ts discusyou tooccurs
like forbrand . Using the each brandbrand. It’s OK
The game will down firstcompa though ny would ts are about
★ Discover the potential positive and negative
users to write on impres sion and your though
encouraging discussion want to game hear what with the audien
ce.
in Round 3, as of the
encouraged the introductionthis round!
ame Script, review
Game it the king of
8. Now, let’s
play the game! The American Legion Family Branding icon – we’ll call
brand rans.org
sGame
AforVete
le
l
Headquaof a
rters famou
| www.AL
Auxiliaryan examp
National ald s.) 3
by giving McDonald’s.)
consequences of branding.
n Legion
to start
9. I’m going
ion.org | America
logo, which is Name.”
Headquarters
| www.Leg
show the first under “Brand
n Legion National fast food. (Now number one h
The America name on line ue to go throug
rs to the brand ndoutut and contin
write the answe g Brand Loyalt
y hando
10. You can back of the Buildin
(Point to the
all 22 logos).
★ Learn about and discuss public perception
6
AforVeterans.org
rters | www.AL
quarters
Headqua Branding Game
Auxiliary National Legion Family
| American Legion The American
| www.Legion.org
for both members and those who aren’t
Headquarters
n Legion National
The America
familiar with our organizations.
The American Legion Family Branding Game
21
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
Help provide scholarships to members,
veterans, and military children
Recent events took a toll on students. As they return to the classroom, it is vital that we
continue to support them through the ALA’s national scholarship programs.
These scholarships provide much needed support for
deserving members, veterans, and military children.
“My lifelong dream of attending an engineering
school is moving forward thanks to the scholarship.
Thank you for your generosity.”
– Rachel Partington, ALA Children of Warriors
National Presidents’ Scholarship recipient
Students like Rachel need your help. Make
a gift today at www.ALAforVeterans.org/Donate
or mail a check to ALA National Headquarters,
3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268.
Be sure to write “scholarships” in the
memo line.
www.ALAforVeterans.org/donate © American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 04/2020
12 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.orgIT’S ALL good
GOOD NEWS. GOOD WORKS. GOOD TO SERVE.
“You don’t need many words if you already know
what you’re talking about.”
— William Stafford, poet
The American Legion Auxiliary, at more than a hundred years old, has faced its fair share of rough
patches that could have thwarted members’ work in our longstanding mission of serving veterans,
the military, and their families. From worldwide wars to major events in U.S. history to a global
pandemic — our members always forge ahead with their mission outreach.
Above: Somerset, Wis., ALA Unit 111 members Brenda Guse (left) and Mary Shimon distribute poppies outside of a local
grocery store to veterans and customers for donations in May.
www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 | Auxiliary magazine 13IT’S ALL good
GOOD IDEAS FROM ALA MEMBERS
While maintaining social distancing,
Check out the how did your unit help veterans
National Veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Creative Arts
Festival “Unit 30 in Pomona assisted with Buddy Checks, sent out
ALA playlist at a monthly newsletter, conducted food drives and delivery,
and assisted the Legion with a blood drive.”
www.YouTube.com/ — Stephanie Huff, California
AmericanLegionAux
“Unit 280 in Benton donated gifts to the Marion VA
for “in hall bingo,” donated face masks to the local
hospital and nursing homes, and helped pay a veteran’s
electric bill.”
— Freda Crider Broadway, Illinois
“ALA Unit 118 of Mars Hill put together boxes
of essentials for a Navy ship’s crew.”
— Linda Ciarleglio Gaudino, Maine
“Unit 13 in Albuquerque donated boxes of food and
delivered them. We made masks and delivered them
to veterans and military families.”
— Lydia Zazueta, New Mexico
“Unit 17 in Talladega made face masks for several
veterans homes, medical facilities, and more. Donated
all perishable food the unit/post had stocked to our local
Red Door Kitchen that delivers hot meals twice a day.”
You’ll see how veterans — Teresa Cooper, Alabama
throughout the country
showcase their talent “Unit 87 in Hodgenville gave out food boxes, made masks
through the healing power for anyone in need, helped people file for unemployment,
of the creative arts. ran errands for the elderly and veterans, and more.”
— Maria Matthews, Kentucky
“Unit and Post 397 in Monterey Park had an ongoing
food bank and put care packages together for veterans in
need. We also collected donations for a virtual rummage
sale to raise funds to help our Legion post stay open.”
— Karen Suarez, California
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @ALAforVeterans.
You could be featured in an upcoming issue of Auxiliary.
14 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.orgREADY TO
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oxygen tank. **Applicable for purchases only. Restocking fee may apply.IT’S ALL good the clothesline, creating a contactless
GOOD WORKS BY ALA MEMBERS and safe way to drop in donations.
They also lined the drive-thru exit
with Legion Family signs and a
‘Thank you for your support’ sign.
“In times of uncertainty, people
always feel connected to our military
and veterans,” said Carney. “We
were astonished at the donations we
received even at a time when people’s
finances may not be the best.”
With only a few days until
National Poppy Day, Unit 45 Junior
members had quickly started
promoting the event on Facebook
and other social media platforms.
Carney sent information to local
media to help market the event. One
of Greenbrier’s local newspapers
NEW WAY TO DISTRIBUTE POPPIES: Barbara Wilson, a member of Unit 45 in attended the drive-thru and wrote
Greenbrier, Tenn., proudly stands next to the unit’s new and timeless National Poppy
Day® banner.
a story about the safe poppy
distribution project that Unit 45 had
CONTACTLESS DRIVE-THRU HELPS DISTRIBUTE POPPIES accomplished.
AND HONOR VETERANS DURING NATIONAL POPPY DAY® “You have to learn how to market
American Legion Auxiliary The whole unit dropped what they these events. Get it on social media;
members have planned special events were doing and dedicated their next contact local media outlets,” added
throughout the year to highlight the few days to help decorate and set up Carney. “You need to think outside
ALA’s 100th anniversary of serving their unit’s first poppy distribution the box. You can’t keep doing things
veterans, the military, and their drive-thru. After careful, yet quick the same old way.”
families. Members postponed all in- discussion, Unit 45 decided the safest Unit 45 may have inspired and
person celebrations and conventions, and most efficient way to distribute led this creative project, but it was
along with most mission-related poppies was to create a no-contact a Legion Family effort to complete
projects, as a way to help ensure the clothesline system. They used target it. Everyone pitched in to help by
safety of our Legion Family during stands from their annual turkey shoot setting up signs, maneuvering a clear
COVID-19. With Memorial Day event to keep the clothesline secure, path for cars, decorating handmade
celebrations on pause, ALA members posters, posting on social media, and
cultivated creative, no-contact ways “You have to learn how not to mention the time spent setting
to still honor National Poppy Day. to market these events. everything up and taking it down
Three days before National Poppy Get it on social media; contact within a few short days.
Day, Kathi Carney, president of Unit Carney and Unit 45 members
local media outlets...”
45 in Greenbrier, Tenn., decided decided to host the National Poppy
to host a contactless drive-thru and the unit saved money by utilizing Day drive-thru as an annual event.
poppy distribution at the Greenbrier signs and props used in past events They bounced around ideas that
American Legion post. Carney and to decorate the drive-thru and post will improve next year’s event and
Unit 45 had always said their post home. welcome a larger crowd. The unit
home was a perfect place to host Providing leftover poppies from may have only had a few days to
drive-thru events, which led to the last year, Unit 45 members took organize their poppy distribution
National Poppy Day project. necessary precautions and wore project, but they already have a great
“A 10-minute conversation gloves and masks to place each poppy start for next year.
on the phone with my treasurer in individual sealed bags, then they “We learned that we just need
turned into one of the best events dangled them on the “Poppy Fence” to find a way to do something to
we have had as a unit,” said Carney. with clothespins. Drivers followed remember our veterans,” added
“Everyone participated in the last- an easy path to the fence and were Carney. “We cannot let them be
minute planning, and as a team, we able to pull the poppy bag off the forgotten, even if that means coming
succeeded in creating something clothespin without touching anything up with a unique way of honoring
quite wonderful.” else. Several buckets were hung along Memorial Day.”
Good works to share? Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org for details.
16 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.orgVIRGINIA JUNIOR spread awareness.
PROVIDES HANDWRITTEN Curro’s 2020
THANK-YOU CARDS FOR New Year’s
SERVICEMEMBERS resolution was
Everyone is facing obstacles in to gather 2,020
their life, especially right now, but the thank-you cards
American Legion Auxiliary’s focus is for active-duty
still committed to helping veterans, military. She
the military, and their families. planned to go to
Many Auxiliary members have had local schools and
to change and adapt to different have students
ways of serving current and past write personal
servicemembers, including Taylor notes on the NOTES OF THANKS: Taylor Curro, Virginia Unit 49 Junior
decorated member, decorates postcards for veterans and servicemembers.
Curro, Junior member of Virginia
Unit 49. cards she made, but because of the Legion Family stickers and ‘Thank You’
Her plan was to gather 2,020 pandemic, Virginia schools were stamps.
handwritten thank-you cards for cancelled, forcing Curro to alter her Curro set up an online survey
servicemembers overseas. Those original plan. through Survey Monkey where her
plans changed due to COVID-19, “I was determined and didn’t goal is explained. The user is able to fill
but Curro managed to overcome the want to wait until the pandemic was out a personalized thank-you card for
obstacle by creating an innovative over to start the creation of these military at home and abroad. Curro
way to continue making a difference cards,” said Curro. “So, I set up an then takes the messages and handwrites
and fulfilling the Auxiliary’s mission. online survey where people in the them on the decorated index cards.
Although Curro has a retired community could fill out a digital “I feel like instead of printing out
mother, and an active-duty thank-you message.” the typed words, it’s so much more
father in the U.S. Air Force, her Virtual cards were not part of her personal if it’s handwritten. So, I took
membership eligibility is through her plan, but she managed to make each it upon myself to handwrite each and
grandmother, Terri Onushco U.S. one personal and heartwarming. every one,” Curro said. “I’ve received
Air Force. Growing up in a military Curro handcrafted her own budget- 128 so far. Not ideally where I want
family, she experienced the struggles friendly postcards made on index to be, but it is still a lot and I’m really
military families face and wanted to cards decorated with American proud of that.”
stay safe during the COVID-19 COVID-19. She told her boys the
pandemic. Service Not Self is story immediately, and was extremely
exhibited now, more than ever, with proud of their response.
members doubling their volunteer This American Legion Family
service by making masks, donating developed a continuous process to
blood, and so much more while also create and distribute hundreds of
serving veterans. Jamie McGuire, ear guards. Evan and Ryan worked
president of Sackets Harbor Unit 583 out a system of printing nearly 24/7.
in New York, and her two teenage They took 12-hour shifts with Ryan
boys, are distributing ear guards working during the day, and Evan
to healthcare workers and other taking the night shift. The 3D printer
essential personnel who may need makes the ear guards in 34 minutes,
CREATIVITY FOR A CAUSE: Evan (left), extra comfort. so every 34 minutes, the boys push a
Ryan, and Jamie McGuire make hundreds McGuire bought her two sons, button to start the process again.
of ear guards with their 3D printer to Evan and Ryan, both Sons of The While the boys are running the
relieve discomfort for healthcare and American Legion Squadron 583 machine and producing the product,
essential workers wearing masks.
members, a 3D printer as their big McGuire distributes them throughout
MEMBERS HELP TWO Christmas and Hanukkah present, the community, and mails ear guards
GROUPS OF HEROES: hoping it would spark creativity. across the country, to anyone who
VETERANS AND HEALTH At first, the boys were unsure may want the extra comfort while
CARE WORKERS of what to do with the 3D printer, wearing a mask.
American Legion Auxiliary until McGuire saw a Facebook “I’m trying to fulfill the need of the
members are broadening their service article about a child who used his community. We have done hundreds
to veterans by helping essential 3D printer to make ear guards for of them!” said McGuire. “We get them
workers and our health care heroes essential workers’ masks during out there to whomever needs them.”
www.ALAforVeterans.org August 2020 | Auxiliary magazine 17IT’S ALL good providing assistance and access
GOOD TO SERVE to information. Red Coat
Ambassadors continue to help
enhance the lives
of veterans. Sound familiar?
“All I want to do is make
their life easier, and I think we
have,” said Wehrli about her five-
year dedication as a Red Coat
Ambassador. “I see we are going in
the right direction.”
The VA asked the American
Legion Auxiliary to be lead
volunteer ambassadors and serve
as a warm welcome, kind face,
ALA AND VETERAN AFFAIRS WORK TOGETHER
and guide for visitors at VA health
THROUGH VA’S RED COAT AMBASSADORS PROGRAM care facilities. In December 2017,
While visiting a U.S. Department and improving veterans’ lives. a memorandum of agreement
of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, “The VA has changed the way was signed by the American
were you welcomed with a friendly they do things, and I can see a more Legion Auxiliary and VA’s Veteran
smile and a helpful hand from positive transformation,” added Experience Office. The purpose of
someone wearing a distinctive red Wehrli. the agreement was to combine the
coat? Well, if you didn’t know, those The Red Coat Ambassadors resources of both Veteran Affairs
caring men and women are Red Program was created by the Veteran and the American Legion Auxiliary
Coat Ambassadors and possibly Affairs’ Veteran Experience Office to to recruit and engage volunteers into
fellow American Legion Auxiliary help improve the experience of health serving as Red Coat Ambassadors at
members. care for veterans, their families, and VA healthcare facilities.
Irma Wehrli their caregivers who choose to receive During the annual DC Briefings
has been a care at the VA. The program is the in March 2020, the ALA signed
member of Unit new culture of customer service at a subsequent memorandum of
57 in Lake City, VA medical centers throughout the agreement that included updated
Fla., since she was nation. responsibilities for both partners to
born. Continuing Red Coat Ambassadors are address, and it requires participation
a 63-year ALA dedicated to improving the lives of in joint roundtable discussions.
Irma Wehrli membership, she patients and visitors by helping with The Auxiliary provides information
extended her passion and support navigation assistance, providing about the program to ALA members
for veterans by volunteering to be a information, and being there through announcements at meetings
Red Coat Ambassador at the Lake when they are needed most. These and in email, and promotes
City VA. Ambassadors offer a listening ear, the partnership through public
“I was taught that you volunteer along with compassion and respect, outreach, on the ALA website, and
at the VA hospital,” said Wehrli. “So to help veterans become more at necessary public events.
ever since I was old enough to go comfortable visiting VA medical “Things are so much better
there, I was there.” hospitals. They undertake numerous for these veterans today,” Wehrli
Growing up volunteering and responsibilities to improve their said. “They are really getting the
visiting VA medical centers, Wehrli visitor’s overall experience. treatment they are supposed to be
witnessed the obstacles veterans Wearing their distinctive getting. It may not have happened
face just to be seen by a doctor. Her signature uniform — a red coat or before, but it is happening now.
passion for supporting veterans, vest — Ambassadors are stationed “If people can volunteer, they need
combined with her knowledge of VA at the main entrance of VA hospitals to,” Wehrli continued. “I know it’s
facilities, persuaded Wehrli to join to greet visitors with smiling faces. not something for everybody, but
the Red Coat Ambassadors Program They make a positive and if you can do it, please do because
as a way to continue making change impactful first impression by these veterans need it!”
Both the American Legion Auxiliary and VA’s Red Coat Ambassadors Program built their
foundation on improving the lives of veterans and their families. If you are interested in
expanding your volunteer opportunities, contact the national ALA Veterans Affairs
& Rehabilitation Program at VA&R@ALAforVeterans.org.
18 Auxiliary magazine | August 2020 www.ALAforVeterans.orgYou can also read
