As a proud veteran who has served my country, I am passionate about giving back to my community and making a difference in the lives of our youth. This year, American Legion Post 64 in Salida, Colorado, and American Legion Post 55 in Buena Vista are hosting a special 250th Celebration of our Country, and we want to make it truly memorable for local children and their families. Our goal is to educate kids about the true meaning of July 4th—what freedom really means and why it’s worth celebrating—while bringing everyone together for a fun, all-ages event.

To make this celebration extra special, we are raising funds to provide free T-shirts and wristbands to children 11 and under at the drone show in Buena Vista and Salida. These T-shirts will feature educational logos on the front, as well as recognition for the major groups and donors who help make this event possible. By wearing these shirts and wristbands, kids will have a tangible reminder of the importance of Independence Day and the values our country was built on.

We believe that education is the biggest gift we can give our youth and their families. With your support, we can spark meaningful conversations about freedom and community pride, while creating lasting memories for everyone involved. Please consider donating to help us reach our goal and make this 250th celebration a truly unforgettable experience for the children of Chaffee County. Thank you for your generosity and support!