As the Boys State program continued to expand in the 60's and 70's, the American Legion realized that in order to be successful, the program would have to be able to fund itself in the not to distant future. With that in mind, the Executive Committee of the Missouri Boys State Board of Directors created The A. B. Weyer Memorial Trust (now called The American Legion Missouri Boys State Memorial Trust, Inc.)

Most contributions to the Trust, thus far, have come from past Boys State participants, civic-minded businesses and a few American Legion Posts. These funds keep the Missouri Boys State Program's financial future bright. Without the Trust and the vital contributions of Missouri businesses and individuals, MBS would not be assured the high level of confidence about the financial future it enjoys today.

Certain funds within the Trust are specifically earmarked for important programs. The George Lehr Memorial Speakers Chair, one such program, sponsors a keynote speaker of national notoriety each year.

Past speakers include:

- Former Senator William Proxmire
- White House journalist Thomas DeFrank
- Senator Christopher Bond
- Former Presidential Candidate Paul Tsongas
- Former Secretary of Education Lamar Alexander
- Former CIA Director Robert Gates
- Former Secretary of Defense William Perry
- Former Kansas City Mayor Emanual Cleaver
- NBC National Correspondent Lisa Myers
- Former Secretary of Defense William Cohen
- Former Senator Bill Bradley
- Former U.S. Representative J.C. Watts
- Former Attorney John Ashcroft
- CNN Correspondant Paul Begala
- Former General Wesley Clark

And others…

An annual student scholarship program was initiated in 1993. Now known as the Wayne S. Gregory Citizen of the Week Scholarship, this $1,000 college scholarship which is renewable for our years, is awarded to the citizen who earns "Citizen of the Week" honors. Selection is based on scholarship, citizenship and leadership. (Click here for more information on Scholarship Opportunities.)

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Fund was established in 1989. This scholarship ensures the continued participation of minority students in the Missouri Boys State Program. The American Legion Missouri Boys State Memorial Trust, Inc. has become an important part of the future of the American Legion Boys State of Missouri. It is essential that the trust flourish in order to ensure a successful future for the Boys State program for years to come. Boys State recognizes that "Today's youth is America's Future!"

The Missouri Boys State Memorial Trust, Inc. is certified as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit tax exempt educational youth program by the Internal Revenue Service. Most contributions to the Trust are tax deductible. Check with your tax advisor to determine whether your donation is tax deductible.

For more information on how to make your contribution, please contact MBS Headquarters.