Guest blog post by American Legion Auxiliary National President Kathy Daudistel 
 
What a year 2021 has been for both the American Legion Auxiliary and the world! 
 
Despite the obstacles we all faced, we persevered as an organization and continued our steadfast focus on veterans, military, and their families. 
 
As we close out another calendar year, let’s reflect on the positives that were part of your life this year — maybe you encouraged a new member to join, maybe you distributed poppies for a donation alongside your American Legion Family, or maybe you brought a meal to a homebound veteran. Or perhaps you helped with a local Veterans Creative Arts Festival, welcomed a military family into your community, or became a regular monetary donor to the Auxiliary at the unit and/or national level. 
 
I want to send an extra ALA thanks to all of you for taking to heart our national focus on caregivers. You recognized them through events, certificates, and many other ways. It was an honor meeting those of you I have  so far, and I’m looking forward to meeting more in 2022. Although caregiving is often a thankless job, remember that you are making a difference. You truly do matter, and the ALA recognizes you!
 
For all that our ALA members have done this year, thank you. Every one of you is a vital part of the American Legion Auxiliary. We are stronger together, and together we can continue to positively impact the lives of our veterans, military, and their families. 
 
When our world was hit by the pandemic, we adapted and overcame as needed to continue our mission. Please keep the momentum going by thinking of new and different ways you can work ALA programs. A new year is a great time to brainstorm new ideas and try different directions. You never know where it may take you, but you will never know if you don’t try! There have been a lot of creative ways members from across the country have implemented a Service Not Self mindset. Please don’t let a pandemic stop you.
 
I know we all went through a lot in 2021, and that’s why it means so much to me that you’re continuing to be such a strong part of the ALA. Let’s continue that forward momentum and welcome 2022 with open arms! Happy New Year, American Legion Auxiliary!