Arizona Unit 115 in Glendale proves that by using basic ideas, units of any size can host successful poppy distribution events in their community. Last year, the unit held a poppy event at a local Fry’s Food store the weekend before Veterans Day and collected $320 for their poppy/welfare account. 
 
“We are a small unit with only 32 members, but we are mighty,” said Lori Muldner, unit president. “The members of our unit wanted an opportunity to share how The American Legion Family honors and supports our veterans, active-duty military, and their families in our community.” Muldner said that through this activity, the unit was able to teach their community about the poppy and what it means to veterans. 
 
Unit members started planning their poppy event by brainstorming what they could do at their activity, as well as possible locations where they could host it. Next, they worked with their local post and American Legion Riders to secure a Fry’s grocery store where The American Legion Family had received permission to host activities.
 
Members set up an Auxiliary branded table at the grocery store and offered red crepe paper poppies and copies of the In Flanders Fields poem. Volunteers worked in shifts so that everyone had the opportunity to participate. In addition to red crepe paper flowers, the unit sold handmade crocheted poppies. When speaking to a passerby, members shared that any donations received would contribute directly to support programs aiding veterans and military families in their local area. 
 
They also used the opportunity for member recruitment by handing out informational brochures and membership applications to all who qualified. ALA Junior members got involved too — Christiana Talavera-Muldner participated as their poppy princess, wearing patriotic clothing, a poppy sash, and tiara. 
 
Unit 115 plans to continue poppy distribution as an annual event on Veterans Day. Members involved in putting the Memorial Day activity together were President Lori Muldner, Second Vice President Alisha Callahan, Chaplain Ruth Virgil-Kerr, Trinity Nickolas, and Junior member Christiana Talavera-Muldner. 
 

Unit 115’s tips on hosting poppy distribution events:
 
Partner with your American Legion post, Riders, and Sons. Check with your Legion Family to see who knows managers or individuals wanting to partner with your unit. Work with all members of your Legion Family to share ideas, find locations for events, and ways to fundraise.  
 
Participate in shifts. If hosting a public event, it’s important to offer shifts for your members so that everyone gets the opportunity to be involved and contribute.  
 
Tell the public how your poppy funds will be used. Unit 115 shared the types of ways they planned to use the funds raised while handing out ALA At A Glance brochures and applications for The American Legion Family to those who were eligible for membership.
 
Stand out and get noticed with ALA branded items. Wearing apparel emblazoned with the American Legion Auxiliary’s name and logo is a great way to raise awareness of the ALA brand in your community — or get people curious enough to ask about our organization. Table covers, signs, apparel, and more can be found at American Legion Flag & Emblem Sales at emblem.legion.org.