VFW Youth Scholarship Programs
Inspiring patriotism and leadership through writing and scholarship.
Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12)
Program Type: Audio Essay Contest
The Voice of Democracy program gives high school students a chance to share their views on freedom, democracy, and civic responsibility. More than 25,000 students compete annually for scholarships totaling over $1.3 million.
2026–2027 Theme: "What A Veteran Taught Me About America?”
Submission Method: All Voice of Democracy entries must be submitted through the Scholars App. No paper entries or mailed submissions will be accepted.
October 31, 2026
Entries, including audio file and transcript, must be uploaded to Scholars App by midnight.
November 15, 2026
Post winners promoted in Scholars App by midnight. Posts should promote ONE entry for every FIFTEEN judged.
December 15, 2026
District promotes ONE winner to Department in Scholars App by midnight.
Patriot’s Pen (Grades 6–8)
Program Type: Written Essay Contest
The Patriot’s Pen essay contest invites middle school students to write about patriotism and citizenship. The Department winner advances to National for a chance to win up to $5,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C.
2026–2027 Theme: "What A Veteran Taught Me About America?”
Submission Method: All Patriot’s Pen entries must be submitted through the Scholars App. Paper or emailed submissions are not accepted.
October 31, 2026
Entries must be uploaded to Scholars App by midnight for Post judging.
November 15, 2026
Post winners promoted in Scholars App by midnight. Posts should promote ONE entry for every FIFTEEN judged.
December 15, 2026
District promotes ONE winner to Department through Scholars App by midnight.
Washington State Youth Essay (Grades 3–5)
Program Type: State-Level Essay Program
The Washington State Youth Essay program encourages students in grades 3–5 to reflect on patriotism and respect for the American flag. It serves as an introduction to the VFW’s national scholarship contests.
2026–2027 Theme: "What I Would Say to a Founding Father"
October 31, 2026
Entries submitted to VFW Posts.
November 15, 2026
Entries forwarded to District. Grades are judged separately. Forward ONE winner for every FIFTEEN judged in EACH grade.
December 15, 2026
Entries submitted to Department.
Submit Washington Youth Essay entries or request assistance:
Email: scottcs1031@gmail.com
Phone/Text: 509-680-0418
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