Welcome to ALA Unit 491
Serving Veterans, Families, and the McHenry Community
The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 491 in McHenry, Illinois, proudly supports the mission of The American Legion: to serve veterans, their families, and the community. As one of the largest women’s patriotic service organizations in the United States, the Auxiliary empowers individuals of all ages to honor and support those who served our nation. Many of us are veterans too.
Who We Are
Unit 491 is a dedicated group of women and men who share a common goal of supporting veterans, active-duty military, and their families. Our members include:
- Spouses, mothers, grandmothers, daughters, granddaughters, and sisters of American Legion members and veterans.
- Female veterans and Active Duty members of the Armed Forces
What We Do
Our mission is carried out through a variety of programs and initiatives focused on:
- Veterans’ Support: Assisting veterans and their families through programs like care packages, visitations, and financial aid.
- Youth Development: Sponsoring educational scholarships, Girls State programs, and other youth leadership opportunities.
- Community Service: Organizing events and campaigns that enhance the quality of life for McHenry residents.
- Patriotic Engagement: Promoting American values through celebrations, memorials, and advocacy for our servicemembers.
Get Involved
Joining the American Legion Auxiliary is a meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of those who served and in our community. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, fundraising, or simply connecting with like-minded individuals, there’s a place for you in Unit 491.
Stay Connected
We invite you to learn more about our work and how you can join us in our mission. Check out our upcoming events here or visit us at the McHenry American Legion Post 491 at 1331 N. Riverside Drive in McHenry.
You can also visit us on Facebook
Join the American Legion Auxiliary
Who can Join?
Membership in The American Legion Auxiliary is available to:
(1) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion; and
(2) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who served in either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918 and any time after December 7, 1941 who, being a citizen of the United States at the time of their entry therein served on active duty in the Armed Forces of any of the governments associated with the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge;
(3) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who were in the Armed Forces of the United States during either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918; and any time after December 7, 1941 who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and
(4) to those women who of their own right are eligible for membership in The American Legion.*
* A woman who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary regardless of whether or not she is a member of The American Legion. However, eligibility of her female relatives (sister, mother, direct descendants) and/or spouse depends upon her membership in The American Legion.re.