For decades, Arizona Boys State has been a “week that shapes a lifetime” for young men across our state. By providing young men with an opportunity to learn about government and civic responsibility, Boys State shapes future leaders and empowers young men to make a difference. Boys State isn’t just a program; it’s a legacy.
This year, Arizona Boys State is facing a new challenge. Our program is moving from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff to the University of Arizona in Tucson. While this new venue offers exciting opportunities, the move has also come with unforeseen costs. To ensure that Boys State continues to shape future generations of leaders, we are reaching out across The American Legion Family and beyond for help.
A Week that Shapes a Lifetime
Arizona Boys State is a flagship youth program of The American Legion Department of Arizona. This week-long leadership training and civics education experience is designed to teach students about how our government functions and to encourage them to become engaged citizens. Boys across the state who have completed their junior year of high school are eligible to attend Arizona Boys State.
When they arrive at Boys State, students become citizens of a fictional 51st state: Boys State. Over the next several days, students campaign and hold elections for political offices at the city, county, and state levels. Once these positions have been filled, the students learn by doing – they pass their own laws, operate their own courts, and generally govern themselves (under the supervision and guidance of the Boys State staff). Students also receive extensive instruction on court procedures, the legislative process, the criminal justice system, civil rights, and civic duties. Outside of these activities, the program also offers numerous recreational opportunities including athletic events, a band, a choir, and a daily student-run newspaper.
The official motto of Boys State is “a week that shapes a lifetime.” Many alumni credit Boys State with shaping their career paths and their commitment to civic engagement. Visit our website at https://azlegion.org/boysstate to learn more about Arizona Boys State.
A Call to Action: Invest in Arizona Boys State
Whether you are a Boys State alumnus, a parent of a former Boys Stater, a high school, an American Legion Post, Squadron, or Unit, or simply an organization or individual who supports the mission of Arizona Boys State, we need your help.
- Alumni: Do you remember your time at Arizona Boys State? Your Boys State experience was made possible by the generosity of others. Now, you have the chance to pay this generosity forward and help us keep the program thriving.
- Parents: As the parent of a former Boys Stater, you’ve seen first-hand the value of this program. Help others follow in your son’s footsteps at Arizona Boys State.
- Sponsoring Organizations: As a previous supporter of Boys State, you already believe in the power of our program. Consider building on your previous support for Boys State to help ensure the program’s continued success.
- Community Members: Join us in ensuring that Boys State remains a successful program for years to come.
How to donate
Every contribution, big or small, is deeply appreciated. All funds donated to Boys State are used to cover general program expenses, including tuition for students who do not have a sponsor or may require financial aid. Visit https://azlegion.org/boysstate/donate to make a secure online donation, or contact boysstatesupport@azlegion.org for instructions on donating by check.
Spread the word
Share this message with your network! Help us reach as many people as possible who believe in the importance of Arizona Boys State. Use the social media share buttons below to post this article on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Tumblr, Mastodon, Nextdoor, or whatever communications spot you know people will see it. And please share within your local American Legion district and area Facebook groups to ensure we reach our dedicated community across the state.
Thank you for your support! Together, we can ensure that the Arizona Boys State legacy continues to inspire and empower young men for generations to come.
Sincerely,
The Arizona Boys State Team
www.azlegion.org/boysstate
