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, nearly 40,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.9 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-$16,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000. Want to apply? Read the rules and eligibility requirements.
Post Level, District Level, and Department Level Awards Presented dependent upon Ranking.
One big recent development on Entries - Electronic Entries Are Acceptable to Post Level. AND Actually Encouraged!!!! Get the Word out in your communities and let them know where to submit them to. AND Both were received early in the program. This takes it out of school c0ntrol which might be a good thing.
The 2025 - 2026 Voice of Democracy Theme is;
