The American Legion Charities

All net proceeds from the 2026 American Legion Promise Ball will support American Legion charities, contributing to essential American Legion fundraising efforts that benefit veterans support programs and youth development charities.

The American Legion Charities plays a vital role in American Legion fundraising by supporting a wide range of programs that focus on veterans, military personnel, their families, and communities. These initiatives generally align with categories such as youth development charities, veteran support programs, and community engagement. Here are some key programs under the American Legion Charities: 

Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA): Provides one-time cash grants to American Legion members and active-duty service members with minor children facing unexpected hardships, covering essential needs up to $1,500. 

National Emergency Fund (NEF): Offers immediate cash grants to Legion Family members and posts affected by natural disasters, with grants up to $3,000 for individuals and $10,000 for posts. 

Child Welfare Foundation (CWF): Awards grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the well-being of children and youth. 

Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW): Provides comfort items and rehabilitation support to recovering military personnel and veterans. 

Legacy Scholarship Fund: Offers financial aid of up to $20,000 for college education to youth whose parents died on active duty or have a significant VA disability rating. 

American Legion Baseball: Promotes healthy competition and sportsmanship among youth. 

Boys State / Boys Nation: Provides students with practical experience in government. 

Junior Shooting Sports: A safety education and marksmanship program for young people. 

Oratorical Contest: Helps high school students develop their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution. 

Scholarships: Supports academic achievement through various scholarships. 

Scouting: The American Legion has a long history of supporting Scouting America. 

Youth Cadet Law Enforcement: Offers insight into law enforcement operations. 

Additionally, the American Legion supports programs that: 

Advocate for veteran affairs and ensure the VA medical system's capacity to care for veterans. 

Assist veterans with benefits, careers, education, and health care. 

Support homeless veterans through outreach, temporary housing, and job training. 

Engage in community programs, including volunteerism, disaster preparedness, and support for initiatives like the Pop Tab Collection Program.