Program Description
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in a democratic- and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, more than 25,000 students in Grades 9-12 from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.5 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. The other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000.
VFW Post 12002 is once again proud to support this Program and provide the following additional cash prizes at the Post level :
1st Place Winner - $200.00 2nd Place Winner - $150.00 3rd Place Winner - $100.00
How to Apply
1. Download and complete the 2024-2025 Rules and Entry Form
2. Document your essay as a Text File using Word or Notepad
( do not include your name or school in the document )
3. Record your essay as an Audio File
( verify that the length of the recording is within the specified time limits )
4. If you have any questions, contact one of Post 12002's Voice of Democracy Program Co-Chairmen :
Lee Saffold eleesaffold@gmail.com 404-667-0581
Jim Davis davis1824@comcast.net 770-235-4858
5. Although the deadline for submitting entries is midnight on October 31,
we would appreciate it if you could have your entry in by October 26.
6. Submit your completed Entry Form, Text File and Audio File by eMail to one of the Program Co-Chairmen
About the 2023-2024 Winner
Sophia Lin, a high school junior at BASIS Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona, was named the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Sophia's speech on the theme, "What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?" won her a $35,000 college scholarship. Sophia was sponsored by Scottsdale VFW Post 3513.
To watch Sophia deliver her winning essay during the VFW's Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, click here, then scroll down to the 2024 Washington Conference video window and click the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy Winner ... shortcut on the right side.
You can also read her Essay by clicking here.
See the complete list of 2023-2024 National Winners
See the list of all National Awards
