Printer Friendly Version - American Legion Edges Closer to Fundraising Goal with $25,000 Madison Foundation Donation

Members of the American Legion Building Improvement Committee accept a donation from Maureen Dalton and The Madison Foundation. From left are Dave Allen, Wally Stone, Charlie Corso, Peter Roos, Maureen Dalton, Rich Nichols, and Fred Muzer. Photo by Anne Foley

The Madison American Legion Griswold Post 79 received a donation of $25,000 from the Maureen and Peter Dalton Fund, a donor-advised fund of The Madison Foundation, this month in support of its Building Improvement Fund. The fundraising campaign launched in the fall has a goal of $200,000 to allow for comprehensive renovations both inside and out. The Dalton Fund donation moves the American Legion a little closer to realizing this goal.

Built in 1936, the hall has been maintained but has had no significant improvements in decades.

“It is old, worn, and tired,” said Post Commander Charles Corso. “I have made it my mission to see this community space revived and restored over the next 18 months.”

Maureen Dalton, who serves as an advisor on the American Legion Building Improvement Committee and is a founding member of The Madison Foundation, is making this gift to the Griswold Post in honor of her late husband, Peter—a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War.

“Peter believed that he was successful in business and in life because of his formative experiences in the military. This gift honors his legacy of supporting veterans on the 10th anniversary of his passing,” said Dalton.

The American Legion Post 79 building renovation plans include new roof and siding, the relocation of a handicap accessible ramp, and expansion of the front porch to create an outdoor meeting space.

“We want to create a campus feel with the Senior Center and plan to hire local contractors, wherever possible, to complete the work,” said Corso.

Dalton is grateful for her relationship with The Madison Foundation where she has a donor-advised fund.

“The foundation offers me a flexible, convenient, and cost-effective way for me to manage my charitable giving,” offered Dalton. “We hope Madison residents will rally around this fundraising effort to preserve the American Legion building. It is much more than a place where veterans meet. It is a community space for Boy Scouts, civic groups, Irish dancers, and town residents seeking a large hall for their gatherings.”

Contributions can be mailed to the American Legion Building Renovation Fund at P.O. Box 504, Madison, CT 06443. To learn more about establishing a donor-advised fund with The Madison Foundation, visit www.themadisonfoudnation.org or call 203-245-2796.