Just as we work hard to serve and support veterans, service personnel and military families, the VFW sponsors many programs that recognize excellence among youth, adults, employers and safety professionals who make a difference in their communities. Each year, several hundred thousand dollars of prizes are handed out each year at the VFW local, District and Department levels for student contests. Entries must be submitted by a local VFW Posts that participate in these programs.

• Barger Nursing Scholarships – The Department awards six $1,000 scholarships to nursing students who are veterans or related to veterans. For more information contact Chairman Bill Mayer at (717) 259-0924. 
• Citizenship Teachers of the Year* – Each year, we honor a teacher in the elementary, junior high and senior high school categories. More info.
• Eagle Scout Award* – One Eagle Scout is presented with the PA VFW Eagle Scout of the Year Award. More info.
• Employer Awards – The Department presents an award to employers (three size categories) who excel in hiring veterans, plus one individual is honored for helping veterans to prepare for employment. For information contact State HQ at (717) 234-7927.
• Geiger Scholarship – This annual scholarship is awarded to a high school student advancing to secondary education (must be related to a veteran). For information contact State HQ at (717) 234-7927.
• Loyalty Day - On May 1, the VFW leads ceremonies to recognize Loyalty to America Day when all citizens are encouraged to reflect on the freedoms they have, to support democracy and to honor those who protect America. Loyalty Day began as “Americanization Day” in 1921 to counter the Communists’ May 1 celebration of the Russian Revolution. The PA VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary hold contests every year to encourage members and students to celebrate Loyalty Day. Click here for a flyer outlining the essay and post contests which includes information about how to submit entries.
• Patriot’s Pen (Jr. High Speech Contest)* – Students from grades 6-8 enter to win savings bonds by writing a speech on a patriotic theme. More info.
• ROTC Leadership Awards – The Department presents certificates and medals to leaders of high school ROTC units. To request VFW certificates and/or medals contact the Executive Secretary at HQ, (717) 234-7927.
• Safety Awards  - Recognition is given each year to one firefighter, police officer and EMS responder
• Voice of Democracy (High School Essay Contest)*- Invites students grades 9-12 to express themselves about democratic ideas and principles
  • Initial letter
  • VOD Information / Application
  • Scholarship donation forms
  • Perpetual scholarship letter
• Voice of Democracy Teacher of the Year Contest – Recognition is given to a teacher who encourages students to participate in the contest
  • Teacher of the Year letter
  • Teacher of the Year nomination form

Winners of these programs advance to the National VFW competition to represent our Department.