Veteran Projects Fund Grant

Mission: Enhance the quality of life for veterans, military, and their families by addressing specific, emergent needs identified by American Legion Auxiliary entities.

Program Focus

The Veteran Projects Fund addresses specific, emergent needs by an American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) entity that honors the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad.

Eligible Applicants

• American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) units
• ALA districts/counties
• ALA departments
• Veterans homes
• VA medical centers and facilities
• Transitional housing programs for veterans
• Other organizations serving veterans (when partnered with ALA)

Types of Projects Funded

Past grants have supported:

• Equipment and supplies for veterans homes (blanket warmers, physical therapy equipment, furniture)
• Therapeutic programs (music therapy, art therapy programs)
• Technology and recreational equipment
• Comfort and quality-of-life improvements
• Creative arts programs and supplies
• Living space upgrades for homeless veterans centers
• Child-friendly areas in VA waiting rooms

Example Awards (2016)

• Connecticut: $3,000 for clothing label maker
• New Mexico (Bataan Unit): $8,470 for outdoor respite area
• Massachusetts: $1,600 for therapeutic garden
• Illinois: $2,752 for child-friendly waiting room areas
• California: $8,334 for children's learning center
• Nebraska: $3,116 for NuStep physical therapy equipment
• New Mexico: $1,200 for music and memory program
• North Dakota: $4,243 for art therapy program
• Nebraska: $3,606 for blanket warmer
• Colorado: $4,000 for carpet and dining furniture

Application Process

1. Identify Your Project: Determine a specific, emergent need for veterans that your ALA entity wants to address.
2. Complete Grant Application: Submit application through the ALA Foundation website at www.ALAFoundation.org/grants
3. Required Information:
   • Project description and goals
   • How the project addresses an emergent need
   • Budget breakdown
   • Expected impact on veterans
   • ALA unit/department information
4. Submit Application: Follow instructions on the grants page for submission format and deadline.

Notes

• Application process described as "seamless" by applicants
• Applications reviewed for alignment with ALA mission
• Matching funds from ALA departments may be included