American Legion Auxiliary Unit 490
The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 490 is the heart of service at South Houston Post 490. Alongside the Post, our Auxiliary members dedicate countless hours to supporting veterans, active-duty military, and their families throughout our community and beyond.
In the spirit of Service, Not Self, Unit 490 participates in patriotic programs, community outreach, youth development, and veteran care initiatives that reflect the ALA's national mission. Whether it's honoring those who served or nurturing the next generation of citizens, our members answer the call.
American Legion Auxiliary
A Brief History
The American Legion Auxiliary was founded in 1919 — the same year as The American Legion — during its first National Convention. From the beginning, women who loved and supported the men and women who served rallied together to carry the mission forward on the home front.
Today the ALA is one of the largest patriotic service organizations in the world, with hundreds of thousands of members across thousands of units in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and several overseas departments. For more than a century, the Auxiliary has championed the needs of veterans, promoted Americanism, and invested in youth and community programs that strengthen our nation.
Our Mission
"In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad."
For God and Country, the ALA advocates for veterans, educates citizens, mentors youth, and promotes patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security.
ALA Programs
The American Legion Auxiliary operates a wide range of programs at the national, department, and unit level. Unit 490 participates in many of these initiatives throughout the year.
🎓 Girls State & Girls Nation
An intensive citizenship program where young women learn about state and federal government through a hands-on mock legislative experience. Top participants are nominated to Girls Nation in Washington, D.C.
Learn More →🎉 Children & Youth
Supporting children of veterans and military families through programs that address their unique needs, including crisis assistance, educational support, and community activities.
Learn More →⚕ Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
Volunteers serve in VA hospitals and veteran care facilities, offering companionship, comfort care, and advocacy to hospitalized veterans and their families.
Learn More →🌟 Americanism
Fostering patriotism and love of country through flag ceremonies, Constitution education, community service projects, and participation in national observances.
Learn More →📚 Scholarships
The ALA awards millions of dollars in scholarships annually, including the Spirit of Youth Scholarship, Children of Warriors National Presidents' Scholarship, and the Non-Traditional Student Scholarship.
View Scholarships →🥊 Poppy Program
The Buddy Poppy is a symbol of sacrifice and remembrance. The ALA distributes poppies to raise awareness and funds that support veteran welfare and rehabilitation programs.
Learn More →Who Can Join?
Membership in the American Legion Auxiliary is open to:
Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct or adopted female descendants of American Legion members, as well as grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct or adopted female descendants of veterans who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces during any recognized period of war.
Female veterans who served honorably are also eligible in their own right — no family Legion member required.
Unit 490 Officers
The following officers currently lead American Legion Auxiliary Unit 490. This list will be updated as elections are held.
Unit Officers
| President | Diana Aguilar |
| 1st Vice President | Loretta Balboa |
| 2nd Vice President | JoAnn Mata |
| Secretary | Vie Denney |
| Treasurer | Sheri Contella |
| Sergeant at Arms | Estella Thornhill |
| Asst. Sergeant at Arms | Siomara Sanchez |
ⓘ Officer roster is updated following annual elections. To report a correction or update, contact the Office Manager.
Helpful Links
🌐 National ALA
Official national website for news, programs, resources, and membership.
legion-aux.org⭐ ALA Texas
Department of Texas Auxiliary — state programs, conventions, and contacts.
alafortexas.org📚 ALA Scholarships
Explore all scholarship opportunities available through the American Legion Auxiliary.
View Scholarships