Montezuma American Legion Post 169 needs more money for new building

MONTEZUMA — The Montezuma American Legion Blakely-Stevens Post 169 is continuing its fundraising efforts to construct a new building at 803 E. Jefferson St. in Montezuma.

The building site is on the two acres of land donated by the late Cloyd and Frances Carl Family.

Bushong Construction has donated $18,500 in the design and blueprints for a 58’ x 63’ new metal building. The building will accommodate the growing membership and will allow community use for parties, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, family gatherings and meetings.

The Legion has budgeted $700,000 for the project, of which $400,000 has been raised. Grants that are part of that $400,000 will expire.

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The Legion said it’s grateful for all of the donations that have brought in $400,000. With grants expiring, the Legion must complete its fundraising efforts by Oct. 1 or find alternative funding.

“The Legion feels that our community here in Montezuma deserves this new, updated building along with transparency in getting there financially,” said the fundraising committee. “Therefore, Legion Post 169 is making an appeal to the community for help in raising the remaining $300,000 to finally reach our goal.”

The Montezuma American Legion has the largest membership of any Legion in Poweshiek County, with 106 current veteran members.

The Sons of American Legion has 45 members, and the American Legion Auxiliary has 62 members.

The Legion provides support and advocacy for Veterans who request benefits from the Veteran's Administration and works closely with the county's Veteran's Affairs Officers.

It counsels veterans on where to receive help and support. In addition, the local legion was largely involved with obtaining and securing the Poweshiek County Freedom Rock.

Post 169 participates in the Montezuma Summer Nights programs, presents colors at local football games, sponsors an annual September Car Show, hosts the annual Memorial Day Services, is deeply involved in Veterans Day programming, and places flags around the square and in local cemeteries on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and on special occasions.

Legion members also volunteer their time to perform Military Honors, upon request, at veterans' funerals.

To contribute to the future success of the American Legion Post 169 and the community itself, send checks to the Montezuma American Legion, P.O. Box 789, Montezuma, IA 50171, or by contributing to the GoFundMe found at https://gofund.me/3157ff39.

Donations are tax-deductible as the Montezuma Blakely-Stevens American Legion Post 169 is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization.