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PUBLIC RELATIONS

Natalia Genovesi King, Department Chairman
Email: kinggenovesi@gmail.com

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Purpose of Public Relations

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The primary role of Public Relations within the American Legion Auxiliary is to collaborate across all organizational levels to develop and maintain a proactive communications strategy. This strategy aims to positively promote the image of the Auxiliary to the public while supporting our mission and advancing organizational goals. A variety of communication tools and resources are available online to units and the Local Legion Family to assist in this effort.

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*Please note that if you would like to request a visit from the Department Public Relations Chair, request forms may be found under the Department website under the FORMS (amlegionauxwi.org/forms) .

PROGRAM ENGAGEMENT PLAN

Click for National PEP information 

Wisconsin Focus:

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PURPOSE: The Public Relations Program aims to cultivate a positive public perception of the organization by encouraging active community involvement among ALA members through branding initiatives and by communicating the organization's mission to the public. In collaboration with our local Legion Family, we seek to advocate for veterans and their families, promote patriotism, and enhance national security.

 

DEADLINES/IMPORTANT DATES

  • April 1st:  Submit Public Relations Award Cover Sheet with narrative for judging as Most Outstanding Unit Public Relations Program to the Department Chairman.

  • To be considered for a national award, the unit must submit its entry on the National website (https://www.legion-aux.org/National-Awards-Form). 

 

GET INVOLVED

   1. Promote the American Legion Auxiliary— a dedicated community of volunteers supporting veterans, military personnel,      and their families.

  • Keep your social media accounts active and engaging.

  • Build relationships with local media, civic organizations, and businesses.

  • Send press releases and Letters to the Editor to local media outlets.

  • Invite local government officials and media representatives to speak to your Unit.

  • Familiarize yourself with the PR Toolkit to enhance your outreach efforts.

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   2. Complete the ALA Academy courses focused on Public Relations: “ALA Branding and Why it Matters to Me!” and “Using Social Media to Your Unit’s Advantage.” Login to complete these FREE courses: American Legion Auxiliary Academy (legion-aux.org/ALA-Academy)

 

   3. Encourage ALA members to increase their visibility in the community through effective branding.

  • Follow ALA trademark guidelines.

  • Wear branded clothing, pins, and accessories at events.

  • Display visible branding at booths, tables, and other event setups.

  • Keep American Legion Family brochures accessible at events.

 

   4. Share the latest updates from ALA national leadership and headquarters.

  • Distribute newsletters both in print and electronically at all organizational levels.

  • Host video conferences (Zoom) to connect with members.

  • Keep members informed about national publications such as Auxiliary magazine, ALA blog, ALA eNews, and ALA social media channels.

 

   5. Enhance your understanding of various PR tools and learn how to use them effectively.

  • Participate in Monthly PR Chats to ask questions and exchange ideas with other Units.

  • Maintain regular communication with PR Committee members for advice and fresh ideas.

  •  Attend the “Public Relations for Local Legion Families” course at Midwinter Conference or virtually via Zoom in the spring.

  • Regularly review the Facebook pages of other Units, Posts, and Departments for inspiration and best practices. Legion Rider Districts, to get new ideas on how to better use social media

 

Resources:

Internal Communications

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Public Relations is not solely about external visibility—it also plays a crucial role in internal engagement. The Public Relations Chair is responsible for keeping members informed and connected. This individual should be involved in the planning and execution of all programs, events, and any newsworthy activities involving unit leadership.

 

The objective is to leverage all forms of communication—digital, print, and in-person—to educate members about both new and ongoing programs. The national and department websites are valuable sources of current information and updates:

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Consistent and effective communication fosters member engagement, motivation, and sustained participation.

External Communications

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The goal of external communications is to elevate public awareness of the American Legion Auxiliary through strategic use of branding, messaging, and outreach. Public Relations Chairs are encouraged to use official Auxiliary emblems and branding materials—available through the department—for printed materials and digital platforms. For guidance on appropriate emblem usage, refer to the Department Red Book or the Legion Family Branding Guide as of 2022.

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Public Relations Chairs also play a key role in promoting the wide range of Auxiliary programs to the community. Brochures and promotional materials are available from department, national, Emblem Sales (emblem.legion.org)  to highlight the impact of Auxiliary initiatives on veterans, service members, military families, youth, and local communities.

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The American Legion Auxiliary's public image is rooted in integrity, action, and a steadfast commitment to our mission. This image is cultivated through the collective efforts of Public Relations Chairs, individual members, and their daily interactions with the public on behalf of the Auxiliary.

Public Relations vs. Publicity

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Although often used interchangeably, public relations and publicity are distinct. Public relations encompasses the broader scope of communications, including spontaneous events, planned initiatives, interviews, and overall public perception of Auxiliary activities. Publicity, on the other hand, refers specifically to the promotion of events or initiatives through media coverage.

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Public Relations Chairs can shape and manage the messaging and timing of publicity efforts. A strong public relations program offers a critical advantage that advertising alone cannot: credibility.

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Resources & Information:​

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2025-2026 District Chairmen:

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District 1 - Beverly Rhode  -Hillman

District 2 - Kristy Wakeman

District 3 - N/A

District 4 - Kathy Grom

District 5 - N/A    

District 6 - Maribeth Wester

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​District 7 - N/A

District 8 - N/A

District 9 - Ashley Drzewiecki

District 10 - Mary Townsend

District 11 - Nancy Schultz

District 12 - Paula Smith

2025-26 National Public Relations Committee Awards Deadlines and Submission Requirements

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Thank you for taking the time to share a favorite story about the positive impact you or someone you know has had on our mission! Your story may inspire another member into service. It also helps us tell the world who we are, what we do, and why we matter.

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​Here are the national awards for this committee:

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​Unit Award: Most Outstanding Unit Public Relations Program for Central Division

  • April 1: All unit entries must be submitted to the department chairperson by April 1st using the entry form in the Public Relations Program Engagement Plan.

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Authorization to Release Personal Information:

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Award submissions become property of the American Legion Auxiliary. Through submission of reports and award entries, the submitter grants non-exclusive reproduction and publication rights to the materials submitted and agrees to have their names and submission published for ALA use or commercial use without additional compensation or permission.

 

​Please fill out the information as completely and accurately as possible. Award certificates will be completed using the information provided on the entry form, so please be sure to complete it in its entirety. Please refer to the webpage for the specific criteria such as photographs, narrative length, submission deadline, and point of contact. All awards will be mailed to the department office after ALA National Convention.

American Legion Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin

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