VFW Youth Programs

Voice of Democracy / Patriots Pen

Working alongside America's youth and instilling a sense of patriotism has always been - and always will be - a VFW priority. Learn more about the VFW's youth and education programs HERE.

Every year the Madras VFW post 12141 awards Voice of Democracy scholarships to Madras and/or Culver high school students and Patriots Pen scholarships to middle school students from Madras and/or Culver.

The winners then compete in District wide (Warm Springs, Madras, Redmond, Prineville, Sisters, Bend and La Pine) post winners. Winners from each district in Oregon then compete at the Department of Oregon level. One winner from the Department of Oregon is then selected to compete at the National level.

Winners at each of the lower levels receive small scholarship while the department and National levels are considerably higher. The 2015 VFW National Voice of Democracy winner received a $30,000 award. Second and third place National winners were awarded lesser amounts.

In addition to the Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen competition, the VFW also recognizes our youth involved in the Scout programs with Scout of the Year awards to scouts who have demonstrated exceptional citizenship in school, scouting and the community. The National winner receives a $5000 scholarship.

Links to (PC fillable) entry forms localized with the Madras post information can be found elsewhere on this page. Feel free to download them.

Scout of the Year

In addition to the Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen competition, the VFW also recognizes our youth involved in the Scout programs with Scout of the Year awards to scouts who have demonstrated exceptional citizenship in school, scouting and the community. The National winner receives a $5000 scholarship.

Teacher of the Year

In addition to students, the VFW also recognizes outstanding teachers in the community. Each year one each from the elementary, junior high and high school levels are chosen for their outstanding commitment to teach Americanism and instill patriotism in their students.