The American Legion Auxiliary is a membership organization, but at the heart of it all, we are a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families. We roll up our sleeves and host stand downs, we volunteer at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers, we educate and mentor our youth, and so much more. 
 
You can join the ALA at birth to over 100 years old — and you can volunteer at any age. This wide range helps benefit our organization in many ways.   
 
The benefits of volunteering are numerous, with upward boosts in emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. 
 
According to an article in WashU Magazine, for both retirees and working individuals who volunteer more than 200 hours, the health benefits are significant. 
 
There are also positives for those who start volunteering much earlier in life, based on an article from theconversation.com. Research found that children and teens who volunteer tend to have better health, lower levels of anxiety, and fewer behavioral problems versus those who don’t volunteer. 
 
In a study highlighted by NPR, high school students were assigned to volunteer for 10 weeks with elementary school kids. The high schoolers who were engaged in volunteering activities saw healthier levels of the following: body mass index, inflammatory markers, and total cholesterol.  
 
For an aging population, research cited by The Guardian shows that volunteering and maintaining a sense of purpose and meaning in life helps provide older people with a wide array of benefits to their physical and mental health. 
 
No matter the age, volunteering is tied to fewer symptoms of depression and overall more satisfaction with life. 
 
With a Service Not Self mindset, Auxiliary members of all ages are encouraged to volunteer to support veterans, military, and their families. 
 
Ways to volunteer as an ALA member:

Make a buddy basket 
Many homeless veterans have difficulty finding transitional or permanent housing. Baskets usually contain items such as cleaning supplies, linens, towels, dishes, and cutlery.
 
Organize an ALA Star Spangled Kids activity
Star Spangled Kids is the American Legion Auxiliary initiative to educate our youth about United States history, Americanism, and the U.S. Constitution. Learn more about this great civics-for-kids initiative at www.ALAforVeterans.org. 
 
Assist in a job fair for veterans or military spouses
Some veterans and military spouses face unique challenges in obtaining a job or advancing a career. You can help them overcome those challenges by volunteering at a job fair for veterans or military spouses in your area. Check with your American Legion post.
 
Volunteer with the VA 
Veteran patients at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers depend on volunteers for their recovery. ALA members have served as VA volunteers for decades through the VA Voluntary Service program, which is part of the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement. You can do your part as a member too!
 
Teach flag etiquette lessons
Have you thought about teaching members of your local community flag etiquette? It is important for people of all ages to know about the history of the flag and the proper way to care for it. 
 
For even more volunteer ideas, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.