With two festivals drawing people to downtown Ironton, it was a good day for groups to benefit from the increased traffic to garner support for their activities.

A local school cheer team was conducting a car wash on Park Avenue, while a block away, members of the American Legion Post 433 in Ironton were engaged in a fundraising drive, collecting donations from passing motorists.

Ron Field, financial officer for the group said the donations were for the group’s work in general, which involves taking care of veteran needs, whether it is a financial hardship or for something like helping to fix a water leak in their home.

He said a drive was also taking place at the South Point Walmart.

Arthur Pierson, who was past president of the Sons of the American Legion, which is open to descendants of those who served, said his group is also conducting a membership drive.

“This is a joint effort,” he said of Saturday’s work. “Our veterans are the reason we are free.”

Field said those interested in donating can contact the post at 310 S. 3rd St. in Ironton.

The Legion also conducts a drive during the holiday season to collect funds to buy items for vets in nursing homes.