Members of the American Legion Post #220 and the community celebrated the $114,500 renovation of the historic Legion building on Saturday, June 25.

Community Preservation Act funds paid for the restoration, which included new siding and other exterior improvements. Originally a schoolhouse built in 1912, the American Legion has occupied the town-owned building, located at 777 Main Street, since 1979.

From Town Meeting voters to state legislators, many were involved in the process.

"It literally took a village to pull this together," said Angela Dunham of the Wareham Historical Society, who previously served on the town's Community Preservation Committee. "If it wasn't for [Post #220 Commander Robert Powilatis'] dedication, it would have never happened."

In addition to local officials, Congressman Bill Keating (D-Mass.), State Representative Susan Williams Gifford (R-Wareham), and State Senator Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton) were on hand for the celebration.

Community Preservation Act funds are generated by a 3% property tax surcharge, with the first $100,000 of a property's assessed value exempt from the levy. Matching state funds come from a tax on property transfers. Town Meeting voters must approve any expenditure of the funds.

Powilatis noted that the project was a community effort that will ultimately give back to the community. He said veterans organizations exist to give back to the community, to fellow veterans programs, and to provide education and guidance to children.

The American Legion sponsors children to attend Boys State and Girls State, a week-long summer leadership and citizenship program open to juniors in high school. Past graduates of the program include Wareham resident John Decas, Neil Armstrong, Bill Clinton, and Lawrence DiCara, a Boston attorney and civic leader who served as the keynote speaker at the open house.

"I'm convinced the greatest challenge we face is providing a level playing field for all," said DiCara. The program, he said, instills confidence and empowers young people.

Legion members hope to sponsor two boys and two girls from Wareham for each program this coming year.