Poppy Chairman
Justina Birkel
Email: jbirkel.ala@gmail.com
Phone: (402) 389-0537
| Poppy Key Resources |
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| National Poppy Page |
| National Little Miss Poppy Contest |
| Poppy Program Guide |
Newsletters
2026
Poppy
Purpose: The purpose of the Poppy Committee is to educate ALA membership and the public on the significance of the poppy and the program’s financial benefit for veterans, military, and their families. Standing Rules #6, National Committees – Mission Outreach
Key Program Statements:
- Promote the Poppy Program and increase revenue.
- Educate our communities on the meaning and history of the poppy.
- Celebrate National Poppy Day® every Friday before Memorial Day.
- Increase the number of poppy makers in our communities.
National Program Awards
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Unit Award: Most Outstanding Unit Poppy Program (per division)
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Department Award: Best Department Poppy Program (per division)
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National Little Miss Poppy Contest
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Poppy Poster Contest
Nebraska Poppy Centerpiece Contest
Click here for the Poppy Centerpiece Contest Rules.
Poppy Poster Contest
ALA Units sponsor poppy poster contests in local schools. When schools do not conduct activities, other youth groups, including ALA Junior members, may participate under direct supervision of the local ALA unit. Contest Classes:
- Class I: Grades 2 and 3
- Class II: Grades 4 and 5
- Class III: Grades 6 and 7
- Class IV: Grades 8 and 9
- Class V: Grades 10 and 11
- Class VI: Grade 12
- Class VII: Students with special needs
Grade levels from 2nd to 12th grade are divided into seven classes (listed above) with one additional class for “Best Overall” in each division. One award in each of the eight classes will be presented in each division.
Poppy Poster Contest Cover Sheet
Click Here for a printable version of the above flyer!
National Poppy Day
May 22, 2026
Poppy Day is celebrated in countries around the world. The American Legion Family brought National Poppy Day® to the United States by asking Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial Day, as National Poppy Day.
On the Friday before Memorial Day, wear a red poppy to honor the fallen and support the living who have worn our nation’s uniform.
The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms.
Led by the American Legion Auxiliary, each year members of The American Legion Family distribute poppies with a request that the person receiving the flower make a donation to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs.