Category: Community Outreach

Holiday party and essay recognition

The room was filled with smiling faces and proud families as we celebrated our incredible youth and the power of their words on Dec. 19. The strong turnout made the night feel extra special and reminded us how meaningful it is to come together as a community.

Jan and Joseph went above and beyond in the kitchen, preparing and serving a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy. Everyone was outstanding. Helping with setup, serving, and cleanup with enthusiasm and professionalism. A special thank you to Santa and Mrs. Claus and their helper for spreading festive cheer and bringing extra smiles to the evening.

The band set the tone with beautiful harmonies and exceptional talent, adding warmth and joy to the celebration.

We are incredibly proud of every student who participated in this year’s essay contests. Your voices matter, and your dedication truly inspires us. Congratulations to all of our recognized participants, including:

Voice of Democracy: Daniel Taylor, Caleb Leache
Patriot’s Pen: Leela Baker
Youth Essay: Sofia Kensell, Cora Brady, Isabella Desmul, Sloan Ivins, Jayden Tabi

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Ballard Food Bank Drive. Your generosity helps support neighbors in need and reflects the true spirit of the season. 

We are grateful for each and every one of you and we look forward to carrying this spirit of unity, service, and gratitude into the new year.

Veterans United for Service event recap

From American Legion Cathay Post #186:

December 17, 2025 — “Serving Those Who Serve” is at the heart of who we are. One special way we live out that mission is by assembling holiday goodie bags for military members traveling through the Sea-Tac Airport USO Center—small gestures that carry big appreciation.

Bringing together partners who share this same spirit of service came naturally. Leadership from five organizations – including the VFW and Post 3063 – joined forces to sponsor this project. Calling themselves “Veterans United for Service,” they supported this effort alongside generous individual contributions. We were also honored to receive support from beloved local companies, including Brown & Haley—famous for their Almond Roca—as well as Oberto Snacks, Incorporated.

During Cathay Post #186’s annual Christmas Holiday Party, volunteers from these organizations worked together to assemble more than 600 holiday goodie bags. The following day, the bags were delivered to the USO Center and warmly received by Don Leingang, Executive Director of USO Northwest.

Filled with snacks, treats, Starbucks gift cards, and comfort items, each bag serves as a heartfelt reminder that our military members are valued, supported, and remembered by their community.

VFW-Elks scholarships awarded

On Nov. 15 at the Washington Army National Guard Armory in Interbary, Alex Salazar, adopted unit coordinator from our post, alonside the Exaulted Ruler from Seattle Elks 92, had the honor of presenting scholarships to three outstanding and deserving soldiers from the 181 BSB, Washington National Guard. 

We are truly grateful for their service and commitment to our country. It’s moments like these that remind us of the strength of our community and the incredible sacrifices made by our veterans.