A month designated to children and youth

The American Legion has celebrated “April is Children & Youth Month” for the past 81 years. During this month of celebration, American Legion Family members are encouraged to show their local communities the Legion’s commitment to children and youth by hosting activities or by becoming involved in programs and organizations that support young people.

American Legion Post 176 in Monroe, Conn., is sponsoring this year’s Department of Connecticut’s Third District Walk-a-Thon to benefit Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC). The April 27 walk is open to the public and all donations benefit CCMC. Last year the walk raised over $1,700. The Department of Florida is hosting a Children & Youth picnic at Post 117 in Palm Bay April 6. The event will include food, carnival games, finger painting, a bounce house, dunk tank, 50/50 raffle and more.
There are many ways an American Legion post, Sons of The American Legion squadron or American Legion Auxiliary unit can observe “April is Children & Youth Month.”

You can:
- Invite an expert from your community to present information about child safety or health;
- Sponsor a community project for children such as a craft or talent show;
- Host a family picnic, movie night; or
- Raise funds for the American Legion’s Child Welfare Foundation or Temporary Financial Assistance program, both of which support children.

If you would like additional ideas on how to support and promote Children & Youth Month in your community, download a copy of the “April is Children & Youth Month” brochure at www.legion.org/publications.

Our support for young people is year-round, but as we observe Children & Youth Month, take a closer look at your post’s work in this area and see how you and your fellow Legion Family members can promote more awareness. Communities, veterans and their family members need to know that American Legion services are available and why children matter so much to us.

I want to hear how you are supporting Children & Youth Month by sharing your story at www.legiontown.org. Let’s spread the word on how the Legion Family is committed to supporting today’s children and youth, the future of our country.