SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete Has 3 Challenges for Sons
SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete Has 3 Challenges for Sons
In a compelling new video message, SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has laid out three important challenges for the Sons of The American Legion (SAL). The focus of his address is on strengthening membership, enhancing donations, and participating in the crucial Be the One mission aimed at preventing veteran suicide. SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has 3 challenges for Sons that resonate deeply within the organization and highlight the vital role that members play in supporting veterans and their families.
Challenge 1: Boosting Membership
The first challenge presented by Navarrete centers around membership growth. He urges all members to make a concerted effort to increase SAL membership to over 400,000. “I’m challenging you to make this the year we top 400,000 members in the Sons of The American Legion,” Navarrete stated. This target is ambitious, especially considering that membership reached an impressive 390,000 in the 2023-24 membership year—a record for the second consecutive year.
Navarrete emphasizes the importance of this growth, particularly in light of the increasing demand for VA healthcare and free assistance from service officers. With many veterans seeking help, expanding the membership base becomes essential. SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has 3 challenges for Sons, with the first being a rallying cry for all members to actively recruit new Sons and to reinforce the organization’s legacy of service.
Challenge 2: Raising Funds for Veterans
The second challenge involves a call to action for detachments and squadrons to raise $500,000 for The American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation (VCF). This foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting military families facing unexpected financial crises, as well as aiding service officers in securing benefits for disabled veterans and their families.
“This is what we do in support of those who have sacrificed so much for the freedoms we enjoy,” Navarrete said. The funds raised through this initiative are crucial for providing necessary assistance to veterans and their families, ensuring they have access to the care and support they need. SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has 3 challenges for Sons, and the fundraising initiative emphasizes the SAL's commitment to serving those who have served us.
Challenge 3: Be the One
The third and perhaps most pressing challenge involves participation in the Be the One mission, which aims to prevent veteran suicide. Navarrete calls on Sons to take the pledge and become trained in suicide prevention strategies. “We need you, Sons, to also Be the One,” he stated.
To facilitate this, Columbia University and The American Legion offer 90-minute training sessions on how to Be the One to save a life. These training sessions are vital for equipping members with the tools needed to support veterans who may be struggling. The urgency of this mission cannot be overstated, and it highlights a significant aspect of what it means to be a member of the Sons of The American Legion.
Why Join the SAL?
For those considering joining, now is an ideal time. By becoming a member, you contribute to a legacy of service and support for veterans and their families. You can join the Pennsylvania American Legion by visiting the Pennsylvania SAL website to learn more about how to get involved. The SAL not only stands as a community of veterans' descendants but also as a formidable force for positive change within the veteran community.
SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has issued a call to action that resonates deeply within the organization. With challenges focused on membership, fundraising, and suicide prevention, his message serves as a reminder of the vital role that the Sons of The American Legion play in supporting veterans and their families. SAL National Commander Joseph Navarrete has 3 challenges for Sons, and together, we can meet these challenges head-on.
You can join the Pennsylvania American Legion and become a part of this impactful mission. For more information on how to get involved, visit the National SAL website and the Pennsylvania American Legion. Your involvement can make a difference—let’s rise to the challenge!
