The Minnesota Veteran Assistance Fund (Minnesota American Legion Foundation Fund 85) is for when struggling veterans do not qualify for other assistance programs or — even when they do qualify — there are times those programs take so long they end up being too late to actually help. Veterans in dire straits can receive assistance, with a max lifetime amount of $5,000. Any request for assistance starts at the local posts, which then bring the requests to the Department of Minnesota. The fund was made possible through the generosity of a deceased member. Gambling funds may be used to donate to it.
The Minnesota American Legion Riders Fund 85 Run was founded in 2022 to raise funds for the Minnesota Veterans Assistance Fund (Minnesota American Legion Foundation Fund 85).
The American Legion Riders (ALR) was formed in fall of 1993 in Garden City, MI as a means to provide an atmosphere whereas Post, Auxiliary and S. A. L. members, who share an enthusiasm for motorcycles, to come together in a family oriented environment.
The American Legion Riders of Minnesota has slowly formed chapters in the intervening years. The First Chapter was formed at Louis Lequier American Legion Post 122 in Deer River, MN. In 2010, through the work of various members, the Minnesota American Legion Riders were formed. The intent was to join all state chapters to support the primary fundraising activity the American Legion Riders have been tasked with.
The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.