Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
Each year, Boerne's VFW Post 688 awards students from Boerne Independent School District and local private schools with monetary awards. Local award winners then advance to compete at the District, state and national level for additional award opportunities. The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.
Each school has a Voice of Democracy point of contact. Please visit your school's front office to find your school's point of contact. Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed entry form to their local participating VFW Post. Download the 2026-2027 entry form, then find your sponsoring local VFW Post as essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.
