The American Legion was chartered by the Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. Located in Mobile, Ala., it is one of the leading veterans' service organizations in the United States. The legion is committed to mentoring and the sponsorship of youth programs in the communities it serves. It organizes activities, such as baseball, races, shooting sports, scouting and conventions, among others. The organization also carries out national security, volunteering, youth support, financial assistance and scholarship services. The American Legion is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization.