The future of American Legion Post 26 got a little bit brighter Thursday morning when former Post Commander James Burrows presented a donation to the Legion.

The check was for $100, and current Post Commander John Sly was very grateful.

“[Burrows] and the other veterans want the Post to continue — no matter what,” he said.

After reading about the Legion’s recent financial difficulties in the Niles Daily Star, Burrows decided he needed to do something.

“We like John,” Burrows said. “And we’re going to back him up.”

Burrows was the post commander in the late 1950s and helped to build the former Post 26 building on Miller Street that has since been torn down.

Thursday, Burrows helped the Post in a different way.

“At his age, with limited income, we are very thankful for his donation,” Sly said.

Sly explained that the Legion will continue to hold Bingo nights and other fundraisers, including a car wash June 20, from 9 to 5 p.m. in the parking lot of Advance Auto, which is located at 900 S. 11th St. in Niles.

Sly also mentioned that they were looking at hosting another dance sometime toward the end of July or the beginning of August. “Phoenix,” a Dowagiac band, has offered to play at the dance for free.

While financial difficulties may have cast a shadow on the future of Post 26, thanks to people like Burrows, members have faith that the Legion will survive.

Sly said others can support the Legion by attending bingo nights and making donations. Anyone can direct questions or donations to Sly by calling (269) 387-1411.