Service Not Self is more than just three words. It’s more than a motto. 
 
Service Not Self is a commitment. It’s empowerment. It’s a promise — one that each and every ALA member strives to follow, but no one can do it alone.
 
ALA national Mission Training offers a collaborative and supportive environment for members to engage with our mission, but also, how to learn and better the organization’s support of our communities, veterans, military, and their families.
 

Gain a deeper insight of the ALA’s programs and how your unit, district, and department can implement them with the greatest impact. 
 
These one-day Mission Training events provide helpful tips on working many of the Auxiliary’s mission outreach programs. 
 
In previous trainings, members grew their knowledge in Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, how American Legion Auxiliary Foundation grants can aid ALA entities in their mission, ways Poppy Funds can be used, and so much more! 
 
While learning and sharing your passion for service, grow your ALA network with national leadership and members outside of your local area. 
 
Mission Training is not only a perfect time for you to learn, but it provides a natural, organic moment for you to share your ALA experience. 
 
For Mission Training to be as accessible as possible, a meeting is held in each ALA division with dates in the fall and winter months.

National Junior Meetings
Mission Training offers a perfect opportunity to strengthen the cornerstone of the ALA: Juniors. 
 
Alongside Mission Training, the national Junior meetings take place, creating a fun and productive environment for Junior members and young Sons of The American Legion to interact with the ALA mission. 

While making lasting friendships with other Legion Family members, these youth will make an impact and change by working together on a service project. 
 
In addition to a service project, attendees will learn how to make poppies. 
 
Poppy making is a perfect opportunity for Juniors and young SAL to not only learn and follow The American Legion Family mission and significance of the poppy, but to also engage in a creative outlet. 
 
Juniors and young SAL can take their new poppy-making skills back to their communities and share their experience with others, making it an activity that keeps on giving.
 
In previous Junior meetings, attendees have learned how to sign the Pledge of Allegiance in American Sign Language, listened to local VA speakers, played games related to the ALA mission, and so many other fun and engaging activities.
 
2026-2027 ALA Mission Training and national Junior meeting dates:
Nov. 14: Northwestern Division*
Jan. 30: Albany, N.Y.*
Jan. 30: Springfield, Ill.
Feb. 6: Atlanta, Ga.
Feb. 6: Las Vegas, Nev.*
 
*These events will be held with The American Legion National Regional Information Conference and the Sons of The American Legion Regional Meeting. Learn more about ALA Mission Training and national Junior meetings: www.ALAforVeterans.org/meetings/mission-training.