BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 14, Thursday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook
Xbox Raffle Kicks Off Year-Long Fundraising Effort
When Chris Casey came home from a Legion convention last summer, he had no idea his kids would soon launch a fundraiser that could help veterans across the country. But that’s exactly what happened.
“In August, I attended the Sons of The American Legion National Convention in New Orleans,” said Casey, who lives in Blair. “As part of the Americanism Commission report, I witnessed an 8-year-old from New Jersey who was brought onstage to provide a donation to The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation. The young man had personally raised $4,000 throughout the year.”
The story stuck with Casey’s kids. After talking it over, they decided to start their own fundraiser, picking a cause close to their hearts. “They chose the VCF because the National Commander challenged the SAL to raise $500,000 nationally for the VCF during the 2024-2025 program year,” Casey said. “The kids picked the Xbox since it is something they know and they thought they could sell tickets to their peers.”
Each of Casey’s children has already shown they understand what service means. His son Sean stepped up at school, leading a special ceremony for classmates. His other son Liam showed what helping others meant to him on what could have been a day off.
“Our squadron had a fundraising breakfast scheduled for the same day as his 7th birthday,” Casey said. “Not only did we not miss the fundraiser, but Liam washed the dishes the entire event with the biggest smile on his face. A seven-year-old chose service over self, who does that? Liam Casey does!”
His daughter Lillian proved her own dedication at an even younger age. “Lillian was 6 years old when her moment occurred at the statue unveiling at the Miguel Keith Park and Memorial in South Omaha,” Casey said. “She stood in the heat, with her flag at attention, and didn’t complain once. She may have been young, but she understood the importance of what that young man had sacrificed for his country.”
The money they raise will help veterans facing tough times. “The American Legion Veterans and Children Foundation has provided $17.9 million in grants to assist military and qualified veteran families with minor children, who are facing unexpected financial emergencies,” Casey explained. “The foundation has provided more than 3,000 trained service officers who secure VA benefits and other forms of assistance to some 750,000 veterans at any time, all the time, free of charge.”
While the Casey family belongs to the Benson post, their work helps veterans everywhere. “The need to support veterans is great and has no boundaries,” Casey said. “Blair is a very giving community and many residents and businesses have provided goods, services, and monetary donations to our programs for years. The residents of Blair can take pride knowing that their hard-earned money is making a difference for veterans across this great country.”
The Xbox raffle is just the start. “The kids hope to raise at least $5,000 during the year in various ways,” Casey said. “They have already discussed the next project and plan to host a root beer float fundraiser during The American Legion Mid-Year meetings in Norfolk, Nebraska in January 2025.”
For these kids, it’s about carrying on a family tradition. “Achieving this goal means the world to these young people,” Casey said. “They will represent Nebraska at the 2025 National Convention in Tampa, Florida, where they will be presenting their donation to the SAL National Commander. Their efforts carry on a legacy of service that was established by their forefather’s military service. They honor their heritage by continuing to advocate for veterans.”
Want to help? Raffle tickets are $5 each or five for $20. To buy tickets or make a donation, email bensonsons112@gmail.com or call Chris Casey at 402-452-4135.
