Renew members now through engagement

Dear American Legion Family members and friends,

Membership renewal is important to uphold our commitment to No Veteran Left Behind, and to remain at the forefront of veteran advocacy efforts. There is strength in numbers. When I testified before Congress earlier this month, the representatives understand that I speak for our 1.8 million members, a figure unmatched by any other veterans service organizations.  

This is why membership renewal is a priority of mine. As such, I have challenged all American Legion departments to reach a 90% renewal goal. Many departments are poised to hit that very achievable and critical mark, as well as reach or exceed their traditional membership goal.

The key to membership renewal is engagement. This can be achieved through Buddy Checks or monthly training sessions on subjects related to membership and our programs. I am asking for each member of your department leadership team, your districts, counties and posts to get those renewals. Hold events, ask members to help, get them engaged, and they will stay.

A membership renewal postcard is available that can be customized to fit the message of your department, district or post. It is another tool to deliver to delinquent members’ 2022 renewal notices.

We simply cannot let the challenges of COVID make us complacent. Our veterans, youth and communities need us. How would our members maintain shelter or posts recover from severe damage caused by a natural disaster if we didn’t have programs and assistance like the National Emergency Fund or the Temporary Financial Assistance program? When wildfires ravaged the west and tornadoes struck the the south, we were there providing vital assistance to our members and our communities. And the only way we were able to do this is through a strong and committed membership.

If you have renewal cards that need to be processed through MyLegion.org, step-by-step instructions are available. Follow them here.

We must ensure there is No Veteran Left Behind and that means growing our numbers in every department. Our country needs a Legion of forces to serve our veterans and communities.

So, let’s renew our commitment, renew our efforts, and renew our members to make 2022 a very prosperous year.

For God and Country,

Paul E. Dillard

American Legion National Commander