SAN LUIS — An organization that is making a positive impact in San Luis is American Legion Post 142.

The American Legion is a national veteran's organization formed in 1919 for veterans to help each other.

Post 142 offers veterans services, scholarships, and has a program that sends boys and girls to Colorado Springs for two weeks to learn more about government.

There are activities for military wives through the American Legion Auxiliary.

Wade Eppler, a 21-year Navy veteran, became commander of Post 142 in April 2022.

The American Legion held a garage sale and elk hunt raffle on Sept. 17. Funds will be used to remodel Post 142, which is currently closed. The kitchen has already been donated.

Eppler feels it is "very important to have a strong presence in the community" and once opened, is "excited to be able to host bingo games again and rent the hall out for dances and other activities."

Eppler added they take care of the Veteran's Wall in Fort Garland, sponsor boys and girls softball teams, and do FUNFEST.

Post 142 hopes to raise funds to build a skatepark in Fort Garland and have movie nights. To learn more, go to www.post142.org.