PROGRAMS

 

Youth Scholarships
Voice of Democracy
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, more than 26,400 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 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 range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department in the state wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form. VFW Post as essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. 
The 2025-26 theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
 
Patriot's Pen
Each year, more than 60,600 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen® annual youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 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. Students interested in participating must submit their essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form. Applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. 
The 2025-26 theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

The point of contact for Jefferson County, VFW Post 3380 is William Reynolds: willreynolds4030@gmail.com