Bradenton resident receives American Legion Auxiliary Award

Donna Anderson, a resident of Bradenton and member of American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Kirby Stewart Unit 24 was recently recognized as Florida’s ALA Unit Member of the Year. She is now heading to the American Legion Auxiliary 99th National Convention, August 23-29, Indianapolis, Indiana.

The award, presented annually at the ALA’s National Convention, recognizes and honors ALA members for outstanding volunteer service and dedication to the organization’s mission of serving veterans, military, and their families.

Donna Anderson’s ALA Unit 24 nominated her for the award because of her commitment to bettering the lives of people in her community through her service as our Children & Youth Committee Chair. Donna worked with Manatee Elementary School initially collecting school supplies. After learning and experiencing further needs while volunteering at the school with kindergartners, it led to her collecting donations for uniforms, shoes, computers, field trips, and much more.

Donna expanded her ability to support this Title 1 school by getting the entire Legion Family involved. As Donna humbly states, “she could not have done it without all the support from The American Legion Post 24, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 24, and American Legion Riders Chapter 24 members.”

Every organization needs passionate and motivated members to support their mission. The Legion Family is proud to share that Donna Anderson is the Department of Florida ALA Unit Member of the Year. This is the first time one of our ALA members has been recognized with this great distinction.