As the U.S. approaches its 250th birthday, The American Legion Family is inviting Americans everywhere to take part in a nationwide initiative rooted in service, wellness, and connection. The USA 250 Challenge is a year-long effort designed to encourage physical fitness, support mental well-being, and strengthen communities while raising critical funds for veterans and military families.
Launched on July 4, 2025, by Past National Commander James LaCoursiere and supported by National Commander Dan Wiley, the challenge runs through July 4, 2026. It is open to American Legion Family members, veterans, service members, civic organizations, and community supporters who want to contribute in meaningful ways while honoring the nation’s history and values.
Who Can Participate
The USA250 Challenge is open to everyone. Participants may join as individuals or as part of a team, including American Legion posts, Auxiliary units, Sons of The American Legion squadrons, and American Legion Riders chapters.
How to Participate
Participants can take part by choosing one or more of the three categories: fitness, mental wellness, and community service. Individuals or teams track their activities over time, working together when needed to reach the 250 goal in each selected category.
Fitness: Moving With Purpose
The fitness category encourages participants to complete 250 miles or hours of physical activity. Activities can include walking, hiking, running, cycling, swimming, rowing, using an elliptical, or playing sports such as pickleball. The focus is on participation, not intensity.
Teams can collaborate to achieve their goal. For example, 10 teammates might each complete 25 miles over time, or a large group could participate in a 5K walk or run to contribute toward the total collectively.
Mental Wellness: Supporting the Mind
The mental wellness category focuses on activities that support emotional and mental health. Participants are encouraged to complete 250 hours of wellness-related activities such as yoga, meditation, journaling, mindfulness practices, or stress-reduction routines.
Group efforts may include hosting Be the One trainings, conducting Buddy Checks, or organizing events centered on mental health awareness. American Legion Riders chapters may also meet the goal in this category by organizing rides totaling at least 250 miles.
Community Service: Giving Back Where It Matters
The community service category calls on participants to complete 250 hours of volunteer service or complete a project that reaches a threshold of 250 people or outcomes. Individuals may volunteer their time, while teams can work together on larger efforts.
Examples include cleaning 250 graves at a veterans cemetery, teaching flag etiquette to students, sending care packages to deployed troops, or supporting other community service programs aligned with The American Legion’s mission.
Registration and Impact
Registration for the USA250 Challenge is $30 and includes a commemorative challenge T-shirt. Participants can select their shirt color, choose a department to represent, register friends or family members, and create or join a team. Proceeds benefit The American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 1925 that provides financial assistance to disabled veterans and military families facing unexpected hardship.
Participants can track progress online and may choose to add fundraising to their participation. Upon completing a category, participants are encouraged to download and share a personalized certificate of achievement.
A Call to Serve and Support
Modeled after the successful 100 Miles for Hope initiative, the USA 250 Challenge expands the opportunity to serve beyond physical activity alone. Through fitness, wellness, and service, participants help strengthen communities while supporting veterans and families nationwide.
To learn more or register, visit The American Legion’s USA 250 Challenge webpage.
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