Joyce Caldwell 2023-2024 National Youth Activities Ambassador
The 2023-2024 Program Year is ending in July, but we must stay connected with our youth. They are our future—not only as leaders for our country but as future members of our great organization.
School is coming to a close, and I am sure there are activities for which you could volunteer your time. Prom and high school graduation are two important activities for high schoolers. Be a chaperone at the prom. Some high schools provide a safe-all-night graduation party either at the high school or at an off-site location. Do they need help? Teachers always need help to close up their classroom for the summer. Volunteer for summer school by handing out lunch bags, participate by reading to the younger ones during their reading circle, fill backpacks with nourishing nonperishable food items to help with food insecurity for weekends.
Many Posts and Auxiliaries are planning their Memorial Day activities, whether it be a parade or a meal for veterans and community members at the Post. Parade participants could involve Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, JROTC groups or other youth groups. Involve the youth in helping to put Flags on our veterans’ graves at the cemetery. At your Post, ask a youth to lead all in the Pledge of Allegiance prior to the meal. This is an opportunity to educate our youth as we commemorate those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Don’t forget to recognize these youth groups by presenting them with a patriotic youth award. A fillable, printable version of this award is available in MALTA, Resources/Youth Activities.
Other important dates to educate our youth on patriotism are:
May 18 – Armed Forces Day
May 27 – Memorial Day
June 14 – Flag Day
June 19 – Juneteenth
July 4 – Independence Day
The support you give our youth will motivate them as they become leaders of tomorrow and encourage them to continue the support of our veterans.