Scholarships
Voice of Democracy
The Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program, started in 1947, lets high school students share their views on democratic themes. Annually, over 26,400 students compete for $1.4 million in scholarships.The top national prize is $35,000 scholarships, with other awards from $1,000 to $21,000. State winners get at least $1,000. Submit your essay and entry form to your local VFW Post by Oct. 31.
The 2025-26 theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for our Country?"
Patriot's Pen
Each year, over 60,600 students in grades 6-8 enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen® essay contest to win nearly 1 million in awards.State winners receiveat least $500, and the national first-place winner gets $5,000! Students write a 300-400 word essay on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Submit your essay and entry form to your local VFW Post by Oct. 31.
The 2025-26 theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for our Country?"
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Veterans Crisis Line
Connect with the Veterans Crisis Line to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves.