|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The American Legion Post 105 is sponsoring three delegates this month to attend the 86th session of the American Legion Boys and Girls State, according to a news release from the organization.
The three candidates are Oliver Boesch from Crystal Springs Upland School, Robert Thai from Junipero Serra High School, and Kai Kapur from Woodside High School.
“Students are chosen by contacting the high schools, telling them about the program, and asking them if they would like to recommend one of their students for us to sponsor,” said 3rd Vice Cmdr. William Jackson Jr. “We get their names, interview them, and select our delegates to sponsor.”
The event will take place June 15 – 22, 2024 on California State University, Sacramento campus. It uses experiential learning, mentorship, and teamwork to empower children.
“It is a participatory program where students become part of the operation of local (municipal), county, and state government,” Jackson said. “They learn the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of franchise citizens. The training is objective and centers on the structure of the three branches of government: Legislative, Judicial, and Executive.”
The Post hopes to instill in the participants the knowledge, skills, and confidence to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and drive positive change in our society. The experience will teach these candidates to uphold the principles of democracy, integrity, and service to others.
Peggy Toye, the San Mateo County Girls State Chairwoman, said, “The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 105 Redwood City concurrently sponsors three accomplished young ladies this year for the 81st session of ALA Girls State.”
This year, the Auxiliary’s delegation represents Design Tech, Nueva, and Sequoia High Schools. The Auxiliary is a separate not-for-profit organization that encompasses female/male spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and direct and adopted daughters of qualified veterans,” she added.
“The Boys and Girls State Program is among the most respected and selective educational programs about the operation of government for high school students in the country,” Jackson said.
The American Legion Post 105 Redwood City, established in October 1919, is a service organization in San Mateo County. Its mission is to serve veterans, active-duty military members, and their families, and the general public.
“The American legion has Four Pillars: Americanism, children and youth, National Security, and Veteran Affairs,” Jackson said.
