In July 2021, the California American Legion state championship baseball tournament was held for the first time in over four decades, in Clovis California.
Over $50,000 was raised in sponsorships, donations, and fundraising across the Department in support of six teams competing for the state title. In 2022, the field has expanded to an eight-team double elimination tournament to promote growth and competitiveness across the state.
That growth comes with an increased need to raise additional funding. The 2022 goal in support of the state championship tournament is $70,000. A significant part of this year‘s fundraising campaign is a Department-wide post challenge. With 418 American Legion posts in California, the challenge is for each post to donate $100.
With all posts participating, this would contribute over $41,000 to the program. California American Legion Baseball kicked off the campaign earlier this year at District 22’s meeting, with a contribution of $2,900 representing all 29 posts in the district. The message of California American Legion Baseball is a flag carried across the Department at DEC, area, district, and post meetings across the Golden State.
The program also enjoys support from the Sons of the American Legion, the American Legion Riders, and VFW districts and posts. A unique dynamic has become a driving factor in the success of this year‘s fundraising campaign, individual legionnaires, auxiliary members, sons and Riders have personally donated to the program.
Each donation is highlighted on poster boards to illustrate the depth and breath of support across the department. To date, American Legion Post 20 in Porterville currently leads the donation charge with a contribution of $1,750. They are closely followed by American Legion Post 43 in Hollywood with a contribution of over $1,600. American Legion Post 291 in Newport Harbor wants two poster boards at their post to promote donations during events and gatherings from all who visit.
At meetings and events where California American Legion Baseball is presented, those in attendance gather around the poster boards and clearly see the challenge for not just their post, but for their personal support and its positive impact on behalf of the program.
Legionnaires and all those who support the mission of The American Legion can contribute to the program. We’ve created easy opportunity for anyone to donate from anywhere in the state using a QRC code. Whether you are attending a motivating and inspirational presentation on California American Legion Baseball, or simply wish to go online and donate, the QRC code is available to you. Your support of this legacy program is highly encouraged and extremely appreciated.
Author: Judy Leonardi
Judy Leonardi is the Spokesperson and Director of Contributions for California American Legion Baseball.
