This national VFW-sponsored youth essay competition gives students in the 6th ,7th & 8th grades an opportunity to write essays expressing their views on an annual patriotic theme. The national winners will receive at least $5,000. All other top winners will receive at least $500.

Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students ( grades 9-12) with the unique opportunity to express themselves through a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. The winner receives $30, 000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.