With a goal to from an organization that supported veterans’ affairs and rehabilitation, national security, Americanism, and children and youth, a group of combat-weary soldiers, waiting passage home from Europe at the end of World War I, founded the American Legion in 1919.
While the group’s last “pillar” may seem slightly out of place, the Legion’s founders understood that the war turned too many children back home into orphans. Never forgetting their fallen brothers in arms, the Legion founders wanted to make sure the parentless children had the aid they needed to survive and succeed.
Flash forward 104 years.
The Legion’s mission to support youth is still a priority, and it is broader and stronger than ever. For the Cleveland American Legion chapter, fulfilling the founders' objective to help school-aged girls and boys achieve their goals is no different. In 2023 the organization donated over $78,000 to local individuals and organizations, with most of it directed towards youth programs.
For Cleveland school, that meant $52,580 in contributions.
“We are beyond grateful to have the support of the Cleveland Legion,” said school superintendent Brian Phillips. “While students are involved in fundraising for their activities, the money that the Legion provides is a boost that takes their programs to a higher level.”
Below is a breakdown of the 2023 Legion donations to Cleveland school as provided by Legion member Andy Queen.
$10,500 – After prom
$2000 – Dollars for Scholars
$1220 – Softball
$3000 – Basketball camps
$500 – Preschool playground
$8000 – Youth (unspecified)
$4000 – Trap team
$2200 – Basketball uniforms
$1500 – Volleyball camp
$50 – Cleveland (golf) Open (which supports school athletics)
$500 – S.E.A.L. project
$1000 – Student Council project
$500 – Cancer treatment fundraiser
$2390 – Girls basketball
$4000 – Softball
$4200 – Boys basketball
$5000 – FFA Alumni Association
$2000 – Band