PACIFIC BEACH – In a military town like San Diego, almost anyone you ask has some connection to active-duty personnel or veterans.
The American Legion family of Pacific Beach, which comprises the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion, all housed at VFW Post 5985 on Turquoise Street, devotes much of its time and focus to assisting this population.
Besides veterans affairs and rehabilitation, three of their other top programs are education, community service, children, and youth. All groups participate in many activities that benefit schools, families, and children in the community.
The latest collaboration is with the Friends of Kate Sessions Parent Teacher Organization. Sessions Elementary is an International Baccalaureate World School in North PB, serving over 410 students, nearly 50% of whom are from military families.
For about a year, the PB American Legion family has been partnering with Sessions to help subsidize some of their enrichment studies, since San Diego Unified no longer funds programs like music, science, PE, art, or even field trips. Each public school is responsible for raising the money to finance this part of its curriculum, costing up to $150,000 per school each year.
Last year, ALA Unit 552 held a comedy night fundraiser to support the FOKS PTO, raising $1,700. This past December, FOKS PTO hosted Cookies with Santa for the active-duty families with children enrolled at Sessions. Each family in attendance received a commissary gift card. In addition, Santa met with every child, all of whom were given gifts.
The final 2025 event was a bingo fundraiser, with the $1,585 net proceeds benefiting FOKS PTO.
The partnership between the PB American Legion Family and FOKS PTO is stronger than ever. ALA is excited to work with a local school that maintains a large active-duty family presence. It’s rewarding to support multiple programs while working within the community.
There will be more collaborative events in 2026.
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