Post Programs
Post 490 runs a wide range of programs serving veterans, youth, and the community. These programs are funded through membership dues, fundraising events, and generous donations from the community.
🎓 Scholarships
Post 490 supports education through local scholarships and by connecting members and their families with state and national programs. Scholarship amounts and applications are reviewed each spring — contact the Post for deadlines.
🏠 Post 490 & District
Annual award for Post 490 members and their dependents. Deadline: April 30, 2026. Winners notified by May 16 and presented at the June 2026 General Meeting.
For students pursuing a career in nursing. Sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary District 22.
American Legion Auxiliary Department of Texas scholarship for Texas residents.
For Texas residents who are children or grandchildren of a veteran pursuing a medical career. In-state and out-of-state awards available.
🏟 Texas Boys & Girls State
Awards for Boys State participants and outstanding young men sponsored by Texas posts.
American Legion Auxiliary State Girls Scholarship Program for young women in Texas.
🌎 National Programs
- Samsung American Legion Scholarship — via Boys State
- American Legion Baseball Scholarship
- American Legion Legacy Scholarship — for children of fallen service members
- Children of Warriors National President's Scholarship
- Non-Traditional Student Scholarship
- Spirit of Youth Scholarship (ALA)
- Junior Member Loyalty Scholarship (ALA)
🏟 Boys State
Each year Post 490 sponsors young men to attend Texas Boys State — an American Legion program teaching the principles of government and citizenship through a hands-on mock state government experience. High school juniors interested in attending should contact the Post.
📅 Texas Boys State 2026
Dates: June 7–12, 2026 (Staff arrive June 6 by 12:00 PM)
Staff Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
Texas Boys State ↗🎤 Oratorical Contest
The American Legion Oratorical Contest — "A Constitutional Speech Contest" — challenges high school students to research and speak on the U.S. Constitution. Post 490 sponsors local contestants, with winners advancing to district, state, and national competition. National finalists compete for college scholarships.
💐 Buddy Poppy Program
Each spring Post 490 distributes Buddy Poppies — handmade by disabled and veteran recipients — to honor all who have served and raise funds for veteran welfare programs. Look for our volunteers in the community each spring around Poppy Day (the Saturday before Memorial Day). Donations from Buddy Poppy distribution go directly to veteran service programs.
📦 Care Packages for Troops
Post 490 organizes care package drives to support troops deployed overseas. Members, families, and community donors contribute items that are packaged and shipped to service members with ties to our community. It's a hands-on way to show appreciation for those currently serving. Contact the Post to participate in our next drive.
🏠 School & Community Grants
Post 490 sponsors elementary schools in the South Houston area and presents academic awards to students at elementary, middle, and high school levels. We also fund contributions to the Special Olympics, South Houston Community Center, Jaycees of Clear Lake, and the USO at Ellington Field.
🏥 Walk of Honor
Post 490's Walk of Honor program honors veterans through laser-engraved memorial bricks displayed at the Post. The program is paused during the fire recovery and rebuild period. When our new home is complete, the Walk of Honor will return — and there will never be a better time to honor a veteran in your life. Coming with the post rebuild.
🏳️ Honor Guard & Color Guard
Post 490 provides trained Honor Guard and Color Guard details for military funerals, memorial services, community events, and patriotic ceremonies throughout the South Houston area. Ensuring every veteran receives the honors they earned is one of the most meaningful services we offer. Contact the Post to request an Honor Guard detail for a service or ceremony.
💋 Legacy Fund
The American Legion Riders chapter at Post 490 contributes to the Legacy Fund — a national scholarship program providing financial assistance to children of military personnel killed in action since September 11, 2001. Riders also support programs for women in crisis situations throughout the Houston area.
Get Involved
Every program we run is powered by members, volunteers, and community support. Join Post 490 to participate, or contact us to learn how you can sponsor a program or event.