Members Helping Members!
Sheila Maxwell, AEF Chairman
The Michigan Legion Family came together this summer to support our brothers and sisters affected by the devastating flooding in West Virginia. Members collected and donated needed items, including diapers, cleaning products, first-aid kits, non-perishable and canned foods, teddy bears, and more. This is just one way members help members in a time of need.
Another way the Auxiliary helps is the Auxiliary Emergency Fund (AEF). This fund supports Auxiliary members who may need Disaster Assistance or Hardship Assistance.
Since the Auxiliary Emergency Fund was established in 1969, it has awarded more than $6 million to more than 6,500 members. This has all been made possible because of MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS—the American Legion Auxiliary’s mission of “Service Not Self” in action.
Many members don’t realize that assistance is available, or they may not want to ask for help. When these types of situations arise, we may not know where to go or where to start. The AEF is a great place to start. Grants may be awarded for up to $3,000 for Disaster or Hardship Assistance.
You can find applications at www.ALAforVeterans.org/AEF and submit them to AEF@ALAforVeterans.org.
This past year, the AEF awarded grants totaling $151,000.
You, or a fellow Auxiliary member, may one day find yourself in need of the important assistance provided through the Auxiliary Emergency Fund. That is why we should take the time to donate, raise awareness, and be there for one another in a time of crisis. Ways to donate:
• Online: You can set up a one-time or monthly recurring contribution directly through the ALA Online Giving Portal: https://www.legion-aux.org/AEF
• Text to give: Text AEF to 1-844-940-3450 and click on the giving link to complete the donation form.
• Mail: American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters, ATTN: Development Division, 3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268.