The 8 & 40 is rooted in supporting the medical community specifically those professionals directly involved in respiratory illnesses in children. While Texas supports the National Scholarship program we also support the ALA Department of Texas Nurses Scholarship. For applications for the National Scholarship logon to www.legion.org , Select >> How We Serve, Scholarships. The ALA Department Scholarship is administered through the Past President's Parley. Applications are available at www.alatexas.org, Select >> Scholarship, Past Presidents Parley.
According to the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation it was created in 1954 to contribute to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth through the dissemination of knowledge about new and innovative organizations and/or their programs designed to benefit youth; and to contribute to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth through the dissemination of knowledge already possessed by well-established organizations, to the end that such information can be more adequately used by society. The FOUNDATION though created by The American Legion, it is actually a separate corporation. It is composed of nine members appointed by our National Executive Committee of The American Legion upon nomination by the National Commander. Serving with the Board of Directors is a Liaison Committee of three appointed by the National President of the American Legion Auxiliary; a Liaison Committee of three appointed by the National Chapeau of the Eight and Forty; and a Liaison Committee of three appointed by the National Commander of the Sons of The American Legion. www.cwf-inc.org.
National Jewish Health is a research institute located in Denver, Colorado specializing in respiratory, immune and allergic research and treatment. It was founded in 1899 to treat tuberculosis, and is today considered one of the world's best medical research and treatment centers. It is a non-sectarian institution and is a main focus of 8 & 40 fundraising nationally. Every year in April Denver is the site of the annual Chapeau Days. In addition to fun and fellowship this event includes leadership workshops as well as a detailed tour of the NJHC. www.nationaljewish.org.
Other groups who support respiratory diseases in children are also supported such as the Cycstic Fibrosis Organization www.cff.org and the American Lung Association www.lungusa.org.