Contest/Awards

The Americanism Essay Contest was created to teach students the value of patriotism and what it means to be Americans. Thousands of students participate in the program each year and help promote a lifelong respect of our flag and country.

Students (grades 3 to 12) explore the fundamental rights and freedoms we enjoy today. Each year’s contest has a different theme; one student in each category per division is awarded a prize. There is a category for students with special needs.

Current Essay Theme: “What does patriotism mean to you?”

Educating our children about American history is extremely important to our country’s civic health. “Star Spangled Kids” is the American Legion Auxiliary initiative to educate our youth about United States history, Americanism, and the U.S. Constitution.

ALA Units sponsor Star Spangled Kids activities in conjunction with local schools and youth groups. Some activities include:

• Americanism Essay Contest
• Unit Citizenship Awards presented to children and youth who have demonstrated the ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
• Bringing Veterans or servicemembers to local schools and youth groups to talk about what their service means to defending the ideals of the Constitution.
• Distributing patriotic coloring books for children in primary grades.
• Celebrating Constitution Day (also known as Citizenship Day) on September 17, the day set aside each year to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution.
• Distributing pocket copies of the U.S. Constitution for school children and/or ALA Junior Members.
• Encouraging high school-aged students to use their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution by participating in The American Legion Oratorical Contest.

Veterans in Community Schools, an American Legion Family program embraced by members of the American Legion Auxiliary, brings history to life as local veterans tell students about their experiences in the military. Students gain firsthand knowledge from the one who lived the story they are telling.

This open forum of learning from those who fought for our country instills patriotism and an appreciation for their freedom in America. They learn about the horrors of war, life in the military, and how service affected their lives and the lives of others. Veterans sharing their stories help students learn from and appreciate the sacrifices the individuals and their families have made.

In addition to sharing their personal stories, veterans may also discuss a wide range of topics, including how to:

• Help a family who has a deployed military servicemember
• Show support for troops
• Demonstrate respect for the American flag and its importance

The Veterans in Community Schools program also can benefit veterans. Sharing their military story with an appreciative audience can help them heal from psychological wounds from combat, deployment, or family separation. Veterans who have spoken to students generally describe the experience as rewarding.

Created in 2002 by the National Children & Youth Committee, these awards are presented annually throughout the year to recognize the heroism and helpfulness of youths under age 18.

In the past three years alone, more than 1,000 Youth Hero and Good Deed awards have been presented to deserving youth.

Nominations are accepted by local ALA units.  If you know of someone deserving of one of these awards, submit a nomination.

Youth Hero Award
Youth Hero Award winners receive a medal and a certificate.

• May be a Junior Auxiliary member or someone eligible for membership, but eligibility is not a criterion for consideration
• Demonstrates a physical act of valor (Heimlich, CPR, first aid, rescuing from fire or water peril)
• Serves as an inspirational role model for the organization and the community

Good Deed Award

• May be a Junior Auxiliary member or someone eligible for membership, but eligibility is not necessary for consideration.
• Donates time and/or money for a worthy cause (such as troop support, raising money to help homeless veterans, a food drive, etc.)

ALA Units sponsor poppy poster contests in local schools. When schools do not conduct activities, other youth groups, including ALA Junior members, may participate under direct supervision of the local ALA unit. Contest Classes:

• Class I: Grades 2 and 3
• Class II: Grades 4 and 5
• Class III: Grades 6 and 7
• Class IV: Grades 8 and 9
• Class V: Grades 10 and 11
• Class VI: Grade 12
• Class VII: Students with special needs