MADISON – Madison American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 229 has scheduled a community event, which all residents are welcome to attend and demonstrate their support for local veterans.

The event, “Valentine’s Blankets for Vets,” at Hogan Family YMCA, 130 Park Square Lane in Madison is set for Feb. 10 from 6 to 7 p.m.

“All ages are welcome to join us in making blankets and cards for the residents at Floyd E. ‘Tut’ Fann State Veterans Home,” Jean Downs said. Downs serves as President of the Madison Auxiliary Unit.

In addition, Downs recently announced a change to National Auxiliary membership requirements. Membership in American Legion Auxiliary now extends to male spouses of U.S. veterans and service members.

“This is such an important change,” Downs said. “With 1.9 million women veterans living in the United States, it is imperative that we allow our male spouses to serve in auxiliary in the same capacity as female spouses have been offered since 1919.”

Currently, the Madison Auxiliary Unit is accepting new members for the 2020 membership year. Membership is open to both male and female spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters and direct and adopted female descendants of members who served in the Armed Forces of the United States.

Membership in Madison Auxiliary Unit provides both the opportunity to serve local veterans and military personnel and to educate children and community members about patriotism and responsible citizenship, Downs said. The auxiliary also sponsors Alabama Girls State for students who attend Bob Jones and James Clemens high schools, along with other youth programs.

For younger children, in-school programs are available for this age-level group, along with numerous scholarship opportunities for Junior Auxiliary members, Downs said.

For information about membership in Madison Auxiliary Unit for both adult and junior members, or for upcoming events, email ALAux229@yahoo.com.