Several ALA units and their post homes already participate in this annual day and participation has now grown from the grassroots level to the national level. American Legion Auxiliary and Wreaths Across America (WAA) have entered a partnership that supports both organizations’ common missions. We encourage members to participate.
 
There are two ways you can take part in the day:

• Sponsor wreaths. Help us honor and remember as many fallen heroes as possible by sponsoring remembrance wreaths. Visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/amlegaux to sponsor a wreath and select the cemetery you would like to support.
• Volunteer as a Sponsorship Group. ALA units can take part in the Wreaths Across America Sponsorship Group Program. Units that register as a “$5 back group” will earn $5 for every $17 sponsorship earned — allowing the donor to essentially “do good twice” and support both programs and missions. As a volunteer Sponsorship Group, you will be responsible for networking within your local community to gather wreath sponsorships. You will select at least one cemetery to support as a group, whether that’s Arlington National Cemetery or another cemetery in your state or within your local community. To sign up as a Sponsorship Group, visit: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/GetInvolved/LeadASponsorshipGroup

Wreath sponsorships must be placed by Nov. 28 to be guaranteed for delivery.
 
‼️Important note: Poppy funds cannot be used for wreaths.
 
You can also volunteer to lay wreaths at local cemeteries. To look for a location near you, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org and click on volunteer.
 
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with WAA was signed and announced at the ALA’s 102nd National Convention in Charlotte. This partnership will build a stronger awareness of each group’s common missions while supporting fundraising efforts nationwide. 
 
Wreaths Across America was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Columbia Falls, Maine. WAA is best known for its annual wreath-laying ceremonies each December. The organization’s yearlong mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Now in nearly 4,000 communities nationwide, WAA volunteers are committed to sharing the mission through education and stories of service and success.

By Jennifer Donovan, Staff Writer