Veterans Memorial Building in Hollister. File photo by Noe Magaña.
Veterans Memorial Building in Hollister. File photo by Noe Magaña.

Information provided by VFW. Lea este artículo en español aquí.

VFW Post 9242 is proud to announce the 2026–2027 Voice of Democracy scholarship competition, an opportunity for local high school students to share their thoughts on America and the lessons they have learned from those who have served our country.

The Voice of Democracy program is open to students in grades 9–12 who are enrolled by the October 31, 2026 application deadline.

This year’s theme is:

“What a Veteran Taught Me About America”

Students participating in the competition are asked to submit a 3–5 minute audio essay addressing the theme. The competition provides students with an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and experiences of America’s veterans while expressing their own perspectives on what America means to them.

The program offers substantial scholarship opportunities, with the national prize currently valued at $35,000.

To participate, students must meet the program’s eligibility requirements, including being lawful U.S. permanent residents or having applied for permanent residence, with the application not having been denied, and intending to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity.

Application Deadline

October 31, 2026

Students interested in participating can scan the QR code on the VFW Post 9242 Voice of Democracy flyer for additional information and application instructions, or visit the Scholar’s App platform identified in the flyer.

VFW Post 9242 encourages local students, parents, teachers, counselors, and schools to share this opportunity with eligible students.

The Voice of Democracy program provides young Americans with a meaningful opportunity to honor the experiences of veterans while developing their communication skills and reflecting on the values and freedoms that define our nation.

For more information and application details, please visit the below link.

https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/youth-scholarships

About the Voice of Democracy Program

The Voice of Democracy is a national audio-essay scholarship competition sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Students compete through local VFW Posts, with opportunities to advance through higher levels of competition and compete for national scholarships.

VFW Post 9242 encourages all eligible students in the community to take advantage of this opportunity and make their voices heard.