Whether it’s $1 or $1,000, every donation to the American Legion Auxiliary helps ensure the ALA’s mission of service endures for generations to come.

When it comes to donations, it matters more that you give rather than how much you give at any one time. While some people may prefer to make a large one-time donation, others may prefer to make smaller donations over time.

For those who decide to space out their donations, recurring gifts are an easy way to make a big impact that works for your budget and schedule. It’s simple — set up your gift one time and it will automatically deduct from your credit card according to your preferences, including: frequency (monthly or quarterly), amount deducted per payment ($10 minimum), and duration. It’s an easy way for those budgeting to still make a positive impact on the lives of our veterans, military, and their families.

ALA 2009-2010 Past National President Rita Navarreté is no stranger to recurring giving — she is a recurring donor for many organizations. She was the first person to sign up for the recurring giving program when the Auxiliary rolled out the option in 2015.

Rita Navarreté

“My membership with this great organization and serving as a Past National President wants me to be a part of making a difference,” Navarreté said. “This ensures programs are funded and invested, making it possible for others to have the opportunity to benefit from the contribution.”

Navarreté said making recurring donations has been a personal practice all the way back to her working days. While she desired to support the cause she believed in, she knew it was going to be tough to make a large donation all at once. That’s when she learned about an alternative —she could have a donation taken directly out of her paycheck.

“That option allowed me to give more as I went further in my position,” said Navarreté.

It’s also a convenience factor for her.

Not only is she a regular recurring donor, but she acts as an ambassador, encouraging others to follow suit. She said she has had opportunities where she was asked to explain the program, especially on the department level.

Navarreté said it’s just a good feeling knowing she plays her part in keeping the Auxiliary’s mission moving forward.

“It just reinforces my personal value to the ALA and the ALA Foundation role in serving others,” said Navarreté. “It’s truly the service, not the self.”

Please consider making an even greater impact for our nation’s heroes by enrolling in the recurring gift program today. Learn more at www.ALAforVeterans.org/Recurring-Gifts.