The Constitution, By-Laws and Standing Rules of the American Legion Auxiliary are the governing documents of our organization and contain the fundamental principles which govern our operation.

They are the rules our organization considers so important that they cannot be changed without prior notice to the members and the vote of a large majority.

More than that, they are a corporate record that must be kept permanently.

Purpose:

The Constitution & By-Laws program informs and educates members of the American Legion Auxiliary on the importance and power of having properly written and regularly reviewed and updated governing documents at all levels of the organization.

Key Program Statements:

  • These fundamental rules of the organization state how the membership agrees to govern itself, how it will choose its leaders, hold its meetings, and policies of the administration of the organization.
  • Knowing the non-profit laws in your state provides the essential foundation for your governing documents at the Department and Unit level.
  • Having governing documents is essential to ensure operations can continue during emergencies.
  • Keeping your governing documents up-to-date and making them available to all members are key to a healthy organization that functions as a team. Our Department governing documents are located for download at: https://alaskalegionauxiliary.org/documents-articles-of-incorporation-bylaws-standing-rules/
  • Remember that Department and Unit Constitution, By-Laws, and Standing Rules shall not conflict with National governing documents.
  • When the National governing documents change, Departments and Units will automatically amend their governing documents to reflect the National changes. A Unit adopt a provision of 'automatic' amendment to governing documents when National ALA governing documents are amended.

  • We have those in our Constitution and By-Laws at the Department level.

In any organization, structure, and order are the bedrock upon which success is built. For the American Legion Auxiliary, this essential foundation is laid by its governing documents, a set of rules and bylaws that guide its operations. These documents serve as a roadmap, ensuring that the organization stays true to its mission and values while effectively serving veterans, their families, and communities across the nation.

  1. Clarity and Consistency: Governing documents provide clear guidelines on how the American Legion Auxiliary operates. They outline the roles and responsibilities of members, officers, and committees, helping to eliminate confusion and maintain consistency in decision-making processes.
  2. Mission Alignment: These documents establish the organization's mission, objectives, and core values. By referencing them, members can ensure that their actions and initiatives are in line with the overarching purpose of the American Legion Auxiliary – to support veterans and their families.
  3. Accountability: Governing documents create a framework for accountability. They detail procedures for elections, finances, and member conduct, ensuring that everyone is held to the same standards. This accountability fosters trust among members and maintains the organization's integrity.
  4. Adaptability: As times change, so too must organizations. Governing documents can be amended to reflect evolving needs and priorities. This adaptability allows the American Legion Auxiliary to stay relevant and responsive to the challenges veterans face in the modern era.

In conclusion, governing documents are the backbone of the American Legion Auxiliary. They provide structure, clarity, and a sense of purpose, ensuring that the organization can effectively fulfill its mission and continue its vital work supporting veterans, their families, and communities across America. By upholding and respecting these governing documents, members honor the legacy of service and sacrifice that defines the American Legion Auxiliary.

PDF Downloads Available

 

Constitution of the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Alaska

Department of Alaska Bylaws

Standing Rules

Policies & Procedures

Deadlines/Important Dates

As part of your narrative report, please include answers to the following questions:

    • Has your Unit done an annual review of your Constitution & By-Laws?
    • How was your Unit inspired to review its governing documents?
    • Has your Unit sponsored any Constitution & By-Laws activities? If so, what were those activities? Please be specific.
    • Did your Unit participate in any Constitution & By-Laws virtual meetings or webinars? If so, were they helpful?

• Photos (in a high-resolution format) that show Unit Constitution & By-Laws Committee activities accompany these reports.

  • Department Report due to National Committee: May 15.

Alaska Department