YOUTH ESSAYS

VFW Youth Scholarship Programs | VFW Department of Washington

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.

2025–2026 Theme: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

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, 2025

Entries, including audio file and transcript, must be uploaded to Scholars App by midnight.

November 15, 2025

Post winners promoted in Scholars App by midnight. Posts should promote ONE entry for every FIFTEEN judged.

December 1, 2025

District promotes ONE winner to Department in Scholars App by midnight.

National Program Page
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.

2025–2026 Theme: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Submission Method: All Patriot’s Pen entries must be submitted through the Scholars App. Paper or emailed submissions are not accepted.

October 31, 2025

Entries must be uploaded to Scholars App by midnight for Post judging.

November 15, 2025

Post winners promoted in Scholars App by midnight. Posts should promote ONE entry for every FIFTEEN judged.

December 1, 2025

District promotes ONE winner to Department through Scholars App by midnight.

National Program Page
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.

2025–2026 Theme: "How I Show Respect to the American Flag.”

October 31, 2025

Entries submitted to VFW Posts.

November 15, 2025

Entries forwarded to District. Grades are judged separately. Forward ONE winner for every FIFTEEN judged in EACH grade.

December 1, 2025

Entries submitted to Department.

Submit Washington Youth Essay entries or request assistance:
Email: scottcs1031@gmail.com
Phone/Text: 509-680-0418

Washington Youth Essay Entry Form