Guest blog post by Suzanne Knapp, 2024-2025 National Education Committee Chair 
 
A common challenge I hear from units when it comes to finding participants for programs like ALA Girls State is that “local schools just won’t engage with us.” As someone who's been in that position before, I understand the frustration. It can feel like hitting a wall when you're simply trying to connect with the school to ask for support. But maybe it’s time we rethink our approach.

It is better to give than to receive
One powerful way to build relationships with schools is through giving, and the American Legion Auxiliary has the perfect program to help units do just that. It’s called the Give 10 to Education program — and there's no better time to launch this initiative than American Education Week, Nov. 18 – 22. It’s a great opportunity to start a new tradition of support, and early in the school year is a perfect time to build trust, so you can return later in the year to ask for participants for other programs. Plus, this is something that can be done year-round to continually remind schools that we are here to support them.

So, how does the Give 10 to Education program work?
Think about what local schools or teachers might need and focus on providing 10 of those items. An elementary school teacher could use 10 boxes of crayons, 10 notebooks, 10 rulers, or 10 “add the name of something that could benefit young students.”

Middle school students might need 10 scientific calculators, 10 specific Lego kits for robotics, and 10 boxes of pencils or pens.

High schools might need 10 small U.S. Constitution booklets for civics lessons,10 little flags to explain Flag Day, or 10 footballs for the sports team for practice.  

The key is to ask yourself: what does the school or classroom need right now? Give them 10 of those items.
Another creative idea to help students in need is to run a backpack program and put 10 items in each one for a student in need. For example, a pack of pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks, crayons, markers, tissue, and more. These items can make a huge difference for students who might not have access to them.

Why giving builds trust
By giving first, you start to build a relationship of trust. Schools are more likely to see you as a genuine partner who is invested in their success, not just someone asking for something in return. This gesture of goodwill can open doors — both with school administrators and with teachers — who may be more willing to find participants for other future programs.

There are countless other needs in schools to which this approach could apply. Be creative! Ask your school-aged children what they need in their classroom. Perhaps your unit could even “adopt” a classroom. For example, buy 10 cases of tissue paper, paper towels, or sanitation towels for the classroom. It’s a simple yet impactful way to show you care. 

Change how we approach schools
Sometimes, shifting the way we approach schools can change how they engage with us. If what we have done in the past isn’t working, then trying something different is worth the effort. Offering tangible support — without an immediate ask — could be the key to breaking down those barriers and opening up new opportunities for collaboration.

If you’re finding it difficult to engage with local schools, giving through the Give 10 to Education program could be the perfect way to build the kind of positive relationship that benefits both your unit and the schools you aim to support.