YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
PROGRAMS
Empowering Young Voices to Learn and Lead
PATRIOT'S PEN
YOUTH ESSAY CONTEST
The Texas Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)’s Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest encourages students in grades 6th through 8th to express their patriotism through writing. This contest fosters national pride and civic responsibility while offering participants the chance to win a portion of over $1.4 million in awards. We invite you to join the more than 73,000 students who participated last year.
VOICE OF DEMOCRACY
AUDIO ESSAY PROGRAM
Our Voice of Democracy program invites high school students to express their views on democracy through a recorded audio essay. This contest aims to deepen young Americans’ understanding of democratic values and civic responsibilities. Participants have the chance to win part of over $1.3 million in scholarships, with the national first-place winner receiving a $35,000 scholarship for their education.
SCOUT OF THE
YEAR
The Texas VFW’s Scout of the Year program honors Eagle Scouts, Girl Scout Gold Award recipients, Venture Summit Award recipients, and Sea Scout Quartermasters for their outstanding citizenship, patriotism, and community service. This initiative recognizes young scouts who demonstrate exceptional leadership and moral integrity, with awards that include scholarships and other recognitions to celebrate their dedication to scouting and community involvement.
WE WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US
Join the VFW by meeting two requirements: honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces and participation in operations on foreign soil or hostile waters. Eligibility can be verified through campaign medals, Hostile Fire Pay, or service in Korea. For family members of eligible veterans, the VFW Auxiliary provides a membership option.
COMBAT TESTED GAMING
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural gaming league, Combat Tested Gaming. Working alongside veteran-owned KC Crew, this landmark initiative provides a new platform for veterans to hone their gaming skills while building camaraderie with other members of the veteran community.
WE WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US
Join the VFW by meeting two requirements: honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces and participation in operations on foreign soil or hostile waters. Eligibility can be verified through campaign medals, Hostile Fire Pay, or service in Korea. For family members of eligible veterans, the VFW Auxiliary provides a membership option.
