VFW Youth Scholarship Contest Entries Due October 31

The deadline for the Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen scholarship contests is fast approaching. Any middle and high school students interested in participating should complete and submit their essays by October 31 at midnight.

The Voice of Democracy contest, established in 1947, is open to students in grades 9 through 12. Each year, about 25,000 high school students enter the audio-essay competition. The national winner will receive a $35,000 scholarship, which helps fund college or technical school tuition.

This year's theme for the Voice of Democracy is: "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?"

The Patriot's Pen contest, for students in grades 6 through 8, focuses on exploring American history and society. Participants are required to author a 300- to 400-word essay. The Patriot's Pen winner at the national level will receive a $5,000 scholarship.

This year's Patriot's Pen theme is: "My Voice in America's Democracy."

Students interested in entering either competition should contact their local VFW Post. Additional information about the contests is at vfw.org/YouthScholarships.

VFW Programs Director Lynn Rolf said Posts that are interested in participating in the contest should start by making a phone call to the school. Rolf added that contacting a school counselor, principal or history teacher is a good starting point.

"The purpose of these contests is to encourage personal growth and foster a greater understanding and appreciation for America, as well as its history and values," Rolf said. "It is inspiring to watch these students every year chase their dreams. The Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen contests provide them a platform to do so."

This article is featured in the 2024 September issue of Checkpoint. If you're a VFW member and don't currently receive the VFW Checkpoint, please contact VFW magazine at [email protected].

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