WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Ashton Yarbrough is one of only 98 young women selected to attend the 68th American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation in Washington, D.C., July 19-26.
Two outstanding citizens, known as "senators," are selected at the 49 ALA Girls State sessions held across the country to represent their state at ALA Girls Nation. This premier leadership conference is designed to provide practical insight into the workings of government, promote youth civic engagement, to instill a sense of pride in America and to empower the next generation of women leaders, providing them with a national network that lasts a lifetime.
At Arkansas Girls State, Ashton was elected to the position of Governor. She also participates in many activities in her high school and community. For example, she was a 2014 4-H Teen Star and is active in the Girls on the Run organization.
A key component of the ALA Girls Nation program is the mock senate sessions in which the delegates write, caucus and debate bills. Campaigns are held to elect party officials and an ALA Girls Nation president and vice president.
In addition to their legislative forums, the senators hear distinguished guest speakers and visit the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, the White House and other memorials in the area. Their visit to Capitol Hill includes meetings with their respective senators and representatives and the opportunity to meet President Obama.
"The ALA Girls Nation experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young women across our nation," said Trish Ward, American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation national chairman. "After attending their local ALA Girls State program and then ALA Girls Nation, the girls return home with a passion for democracy and an appreciation for our nation's veterans and their families."
American Legion Auxiliary members have dedicated themselves for nearly a century to meeting the needs of our nation's veterans, members of the military and their families both here and abroad. They volunteer millions of hours yearly, with a value of nearly $2 billion. As part of the world's largest women's patriotic service organization, Auxiliary volunteers across the country also step up to honor veterans and military through annual scholarships and with ALA Girls State programs, teaching high school juniors to be leaders grounded in patriotism and Americanism.
To learn more about the Auxiliary's mission or to volunteer, donate or join, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.
General News on 07/23/2014