Celebrate & Educate: Youth Programs Inspire Civic Leadership for America’s 250th Anniversary
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the American Legion Family is encouraging communities to “Celebrate & Educate” through a wide range of youth programs focused on civics, leadership and responsible citizenship.
From interactive books and educational materials about the U.S. flag, veterans and America’s founding values to hands-on leadership experiences, these initiatives reach students of all ages. Signature programs include the American Legion Oratorical Contest, awarding more than $200,000 in scholarships each year; Boys State and Boys Nation; Girls State and Girls Nation; the Americanism Essay and Poppy Poster contests; American Legion Baseball; and Junior Shooting Sports.
Together, these programs equip young people with a deeper understanding of the Constitution, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and the leadership skills needed to serve their communities—now and beyond America’s 250th birthday.
