COVID-19 update
Be a shining light during these trying times

3-16-20 UPDATE: 

The American Legion Auxiliary National Organization continues to monitor the latest updates provided by local, state, and federal officials regarding the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Every day, it seems like a bold, new statement or directive is released to Americans regarding how we can protect each other during these trying times. And while all of this is happening, social distancing remains difficult for American Legion Auxiliary members, who are accustomed to helping people on a regular basis. For more than a century, we’ve been serving veterans, military, and their families. We’re definitely in unfamiliar territory right now regarding the edicts to isolate ourselves from others.

People need us. Our older veterans and members, and those who fall under the at-risk categories as listed by the Centers for Disease Control need us. But just because we’re staying at home, it doesn’t mean we can’t reach out to one another. You can always call, text, FaceTime, or even sing from a balcony or rooftop – whatever it takes. The point is, we need to make sure those we serve are OK, and that our fellow members are too. During the ALA’s Week of Caring and Sharing April 1-7, which is similar to The American Legion’s Buddy Checks, add that personal touch regarding renewing and reconnecting memberships. You can check out the Membership Committee action plan at www.ALAforVeterans.org for sample scripts and other resources.

We live in stressful times. Let us be the bright points during these dark moments.

-- American Legion Auxiliary National President Nicole Clapp

Following are the latest coronavirus updates from ALA National Headquarters:

The CDC, in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings, recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States. Therefore, ALA National Headquarters is canceling the two remaining Mission Training 201 sessions in Albuquerque, N.M., and Nashville/Franklin, Tenn. Refund information has been sent to members previously registered for those events. We hope to reschedule sometime in the fall.

ALANHQ staff are working on creative ways to keep Auxiliary business moving forward. As of today, March 16, we are in the office during the building’s usual business hours, but we will follow all guidelines set forth by officials if mandatory changes are to be made. As The American Legion National Headquarters has done, we are providing a liberal leave policy for employees who are ill or who have family members who are ill. We are also providing flexible remote work options for those experiencing daycare issues because of school cancellations. We ask that local members please refrain from visiting us in person until further notice.

Executive Area staff are currently checking with Auxiliary departments on whether National President Nicole Clapp’s official visits will be canceled.

Need to know what’s going on at The American Legion National Headquarters? Check their website at www.Legion.org/coronavirus and their social media channels for the latest updates.

Visit www.ALAforVeterans.org to access program information, member resources, and other news 24/7 from ALA National Headquarters. Follow us on social media @alaforveterans for the latest ALA updates.

Stay informed about coronavirus through reliable websites such as the CDC. Also, be sure to keep up with any updates from your state or local government.

Media Contact

Communications Division
(317) 569-4500
pr@alaforveterans.org

ALA Mission
Statement

In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.