American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Unit 51 — along with the Legion and Sons of The American Legion — have been actively working to increase their visibility in the community and make the post home a local destination point. 

By hosting several community events and improving the facility’s aesthetics, the Family has slowly changed the perception that the post is just a bar and restaurant frequented by only members of the Legion Family. In spring 2023, the unit partnered with post members to complete an extensive refresh of the post home. This included cleaning, painting, and updating the decor.

“The post for many years has been an option for community events such as weddings, anniversary parties, graduations, and funerals,” said Unit 51 President Linda Setterlund. “Since the refurbishing has been completed, many guests have commented that the space is more inviting and comfortable for families. There has been an increase in events, especially with families. Area Lions clubs, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, and other community organizations use the post rooms for their meetings.”

Opening the post home to the community has helped the Legion Family not only flourish, but get their name out to potential members, volunteers, and donors. 

Following are examples of their successful community outreach initiatives: 

• In December, community associations and businesses hold their Christmas parties at the post. For the past two years, the Auxiliary has put on a free event for children of all ages. The children make decorations and gifts and wrap them to give to their families. They also enjoy a snack and visit with Santa.   

• Bingo once a week, drawing in close to 100 guests each week.

• Cribbage, 500 Rummy, and the senior dance have seen an increase in attendance due to the welcoming atmosphere and comfort level.

• The outside of the building has been painted, along with murals added, increasing the curb appeal. The murals are a wonderful way to draw attention from the highway, bringing in the local crowd, as well as out-of-towners passing by. 

• The largest event is Veterans Day, which begins with the posting of colors by the post’s Honor Guard, and the Pine City High School choir sings the National Anthem. Following the program, a meal is served. The post partners with the Pine City VFW post, Auxiliary, Riders, Sons, and other community organizations to serve and honor more than 250 veterans and members. 

“We continue to get the word out that there are special events going on by advertising in local newspapers, radio, and putting up posters at local businesses,” said Unit 51 Vice President Twyla Christian. 

Working as a Family to recruit more members to work the mission and being active in the community has really benefited current members. 

Setterlund and Christian said they are both incredibly proud of the post building and the entire American Legion Family. 

“We strive to pass this emotion on to every person who walks through the doors,” they said.