Youth Scholarship Programs:
Voice of Democracy
2025-2026 Theme is:
"How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy (VOD) audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.3 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships ranges from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.
To get started find your sponsoring local VFW Post to acquiring their QR Code for the application at that post. Reminder applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.
Patriot's Pen
The 2025-26 theme is:
"How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”
Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 million in state and national awards. Each first-place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000!
The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief.
To get started find your sponsoring local VFW Post to acquiring their QR Code for the application at that post. Reminder applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.
SCOUT OF THE YEAR
Some of our earliest ties to the community involve youth groups and perhaps none are stronger or more lasting than the relationship between the VFW and America's scouting organizations. In fact, our partnership with the Boy Scouts of America dates back to 1915 when VFW Post 2100 helped to establish Troop 1 in Everett, Washington.
Our Scout of the Year program provides members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to be recognized for their standout citizenship, patriotism and love of country.
Before submitting your Scout of the Year application, please review the rules and eligibility requirements. Please download the VFW Scout of the Year brochure and entry form to submit at your local VFW Post.