Celebrate April is Children & Youth Month

For the past 84 years, The American Legion has supported today’s young people as we observe April as Children & Youth Month. During this month of celebration, I encourage American Legion Family members to show their local communities our dedication to young people by hosting youth activities or by becoming involved in programs and organizations that support young people.

For example, your American Legion post can:

• Host an arts and craft day, community picnic with relay races and face painting, organize a nature hike, or help plant a community garden. 
• Reach out to the local schools to see if you can teach flag etiquette and why we recite the Pledge of Allegiance to youth in the classroom. 
• Fundraise for American Legion children and youth programs. You can start by joining the third annual 100 Miles for Hope where registration fees and donations support The American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation to ensure Temporary Financial Assistance grants are provided to help eligible military veterans and Legion members with children in the home who are facing a hardship. Or fundraise to support the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, which provides grants to nonprofits that contribute to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of the children and youth of this country.

It’s through The American Legion that youth can learn patriotism, respect for the American flag and develop leadership skills that will last a lifetime. And The American Legion is where families go to feel a sense of community and give back to those that gave us our freedom. 

For further ideas on how to promote Children & Youth Month in your community, download the April Is Children & Youth Month brochure at  www.legion.org/publications. And share with us on www.legiontown.org. how you are observing April as Children & Youth Month.