Guest blog post by Wisconsin Unit 234 President Jodi Kallas
 
The Daugherty-Hamilton Unit 234 of Omro, Wis., was honored to present two American Legion Auxiliary Good Deed Awards so far in 2026.
 
Evelyn Reible was awarded this recognition for her thoughtful support of the homeless people in her area. Her birthday wish was to receive items in order to make backpacks for the homeless people who live in her city. She also began creating birthday boxes for those who go to the food pantry so they can celebrate birthdays like she does. 
 

I was honored to present this award to Hailey Domke as well for her dedication to a youth 4-H program she began for kids with disabilities called Endless Adventures. She started this organization two years ago in memory of a 4-H friend who had Asperger’s Syndrome. Hailey saw the way he interacted with the animals and the joy it gave him to show them at the Winnebago County Fair. Endless Adventures gives these kids the hands-on experience to learn how to care for and show animals at the fair. 
 
 
Ready to nominate someone for an ALA Good Deed or Youth Hero Award? Check out the criteria: 
These awards are presented throughout the year to recognize the heroism and leadership in community service of youths high school age or younger.

Thousands of Youth Hero and Good Deed awards have been presented to deserving youth since their inception.
Nominations are made by members and their local ALA units. If you know of a deserving youth, submit a nomination.

Award Criteria:

Youth Hero Award
Youth Hero Award winners receive a medal and a certificate.

• Demonstrates a physical act of valor.
• Serves as an inspirational role model for the organization and the community.
• American Legion Family membership is not a criterion for consideration.
• Examples:
  • Performing the Heimlich maneuver.
  • Rescue from fire or water peril.
  • Performing CPR.
  • Providing assistance in a medical situation.

• Project demonstrates leadership in community service by planning, organizing, and executing a service project.
• Project must be initiated by the youth being nominated.
• American Legion Family membership is not a criterion for consideration.
• Examples:
  • Planning, organizing, and preparing a Veterans Day dinner.
  • Arranging for donations to a charity instead of birthday presents.
  • Organizing an event to fill backpacks for homeless veterans and arranging for their distribution.