In recognition of National Mentoring Month, American Legion youth programs rely on dedicated volunteers mentoring the next generation.
President Biden proclaimed January as National Mentoring Month where those who give their time to mentor young people are recognized. The American Legion is led by dedicated volunteers who mentor youth in the organization’s Americanism and Children & Youth programs. Volunteers are mentoring youth in civics, sportsmanship, marksmanship skills, government instruction, and more.
American Legion youth programs are always looking for volunteers. Get involved with:
Boys State/Boys Nation. Over 13,000 rising high school juniors become part of the operation of local, county and state government during Boys State with two delegates from each department program attending Boys Nation in Washington, D.C., for a week to receive an education on the structure and function of federal government.
Oratorical contest. Over 6,000 high school youth enter this competition at the post level where they develop an understanding and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution by preparing and reciting a speech on the Constitution. A finalist from each department participating in the program advances to the national contest in Hillsdale, Mich., where they compete for $203,500 in scholarships.
Junior Shooting Sports. Nearly 800 individual shooters enter The American Legion’s air rifle tournament each year to learn marksmanship skills and compete for a spot in the national tournament in Hillsdale, Mich.
American Legion Baseball. Over 3,000 teams and about 50,000 youth participate in the program yearly for a chance to be one of eight teams advancing to the American Legion World Series in Shelby, N.C.
Youth Cadet Law Enforcement. American Legion departments often conduct this weeklong program in conjunction with their state police or highway patrol academy to educate high school students about law enforcement, provide a day-in-the-life of a trooper in training, and instill respect for law enforcement.
Scouting. Local posts charter over 2,000 Scouting units, serving more than 30,000 youth.
Children & Youth. Help advocate for child health and safety, and family support.
- Youth Programs