The American Legion Boys State of Missouri, Inc.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders in St. Louis and Across Missouri

Missouri Boys State is built on one powerful idea: the individual has the power to change the world — and that change often begins right here at home.

Each year, hundreds of young men from the St. Louis region join peers from across Missouri for a transformative leadership experience. Through Missouri Boys State and Missouri Girls State, rising high school seniors build a mock government from the ground up. They campaign for office, draft and debate legislation, serve in the judiciary, report as members of the press, take college-level courses, hear from inspiring leaders, and engage in spirited competition — all while developing the confidence to lead in their schools and communities.

At the heart of the experience are our core values:

We respect other viewpoints. Students learn to listen thoughtfully, engage in civil discourse, and collaborate across differences.

We act with integrity. Character guides leadership. Participants are challenged to lead ethically and take responsibility for their actions.

We engage in civics. Students experience firsthand how local, state, and national government functions — and why participation matters.

We champion our democracy. Through elections, debate, and shared governance, students strengthen their understanding of democratic principles and their role in protecting them.

A Lasting Impact in the St. Louis Region

For more than 80 years, Missouri Boys State has prepared young Missourians for lives of engaged citizenship and service. Missouri Boys State began in 1938, followed by ALA Missouri Girls State in 1940, and both programs continue to provide immersive leadership education rooted in democratic values.

The impact in the St. Louis region is significant. In 2026, approximately 503 participants — nearly one-third of all attendees — will come from 94 St. Louis-area high schools. These students return home better equipped to lead student organizations, serve their communities, and engage in civic life.

Missouri Boys State is often described as life-changing. Alumni consistently share that the program shaped their confidence, clarified their goals, and strengthened their commitment to community involvement. Many graduates go on to serve as elected officials, military leaders, attorneys, educators, entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens — including right here in the St. Louis area.

Just as importantly, students build relationships with peers from diverse communities and backgrounds, developing empathy, communication skills, and respect for differing viewpoints — qualities that strengthen the fabric of our region.

The 2026 Experience

From June 20–27, 2026, we expect 1,675 students to attend the programs at Lindenwood University in St. Charles. A $600 fee covers meals, housing, and all activities. More than 250 dedicated volunteers — many of them alumni — help guide students through this immersive experience.

Community support plays a vital role in ensuring access for St. Louis-area students. Donations help provide scholarships so that no qualified student is turned away due to financial barriers. Contributions also sustain program innovation and maintain the high-quality experience that has shaped leaders for generations.

When you support Missouri Boys State through Give STL Day, you are investing directly in young leaders from our region — students who will strengthen St. Louis schools, businesses, neighborhoods, and civic institutions for years to come.

Together, we are building leaders of character, conviction, and service — starting right here in our community.