Programs

The American Legion in Haines has contributed over $200,000 in charitable giving to the community, with over $55,000 in scholarships.

Oratorical Contest
The Oratorical Contest presents participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. The contest begins at the Post level with the winner being awarded a $250.00 scholarship.  The winner will advance to the District level to compete for a $300.00 scholarship.  A statewide competition is held in April usually in Anchorage.  The winner of that competition will represent the state of Alaska in a National competition.  Scholarships of over $10,000.00 will be awarded.
 
American Legion Boys State/Girls State
American Legion Boys State/Girls State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high-school students. It is a participatory program in which students become part of the operation of local, county and state government.  Delegates will be selected at the local level to attend a week long program actually forming and running a government.  Selected candidates will represent our state at the nation level and be eligible for several scholarships.  This program is a very positive asset on job resumes.

Veteran’s Day Dinner
Annually, this Post hosts a dinner for our veterans and active duty soldiers on Veteran’s Day, November 11.  It is a top notch dinner served by Haines Youth and has a short program honoring those who have served and those serving our country now. Veterans please sign at the door and thank you for serving our country!

Spelling Bee
Annually, the American Legion Auxiliary conducts a spelling bee in the community.  The top three winners are awarded small cash prizes and the first place finisher and chaperone receive an all-expenses paid trip to the state Spelling Bee.

Historical Essay
A historical essay contest is held annually to compete for small cash prizes and the opportunity to compete at the state level.

Boys and Girls State
Each year in May, The American Legion – Department of Alaska, conducts a week long event known as Boys State and Girls’ State in Palmer. High school juniors from all over Alaska are selected to participate in the mock-government activity in which they elect senators, representatives, a governor, lieutenant governor, etc. and then proceed to propose laws and follow their process through to enactment.