AMERICAN LEGION BOYS STATE AND BOYS NATION “A WEEK THAT SHAPES A LIFETIME!”

Long-standing programs of The American Legion 49 states have a Boys State program Two outstanding Boys State “Citizens” become Boys Nation “Senators” Each program teaches the responsibilities of citizenship and practical operation of government. Deepened patriotism Leadership, community trusteeship, camaraderie and fun!

 Resolution No FALL NEC – “Expression of Concern in Declining Boys State Participation”  Competition with other programs for youth time and attention  Attrition of experienced Post members and educators  Competition for time in school curriculum

 Collaboration between Posts and school educators  Educators identify likely candidates  Posts interview and select  One-on-one contact between Post and schools is vital  Maintaining regular contact also important  Posts should track timelines

 Annual Boys State Director’s Conference  Brainstorm new ideas  Share best-practices  Discuss lessons-learned  Peer networking  Implementation of new promotional tools  DVD – “A Challenge for the Future”  Website –  Poster - customized  Actively promoting and “selling the program”  Booths, mailings, presentations, alumni

 All levels of The American Legion  Post meetings  District Conferences  Department Conventions  High schools  Youth organizations  Community and church organizations  Professional education organizations

OUR YOUTH…… OUR FUTURE