BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Belleview Post 8083 proudly invites local high school students to participate in the 2025-2026 Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition—a premier patriotic audio essay contest that offers a grand prize of $35,000 at the national level.

This year’s compelling theme is: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Open to students in grades 9–12, the Voice of Democracy program challenges young Americans to reflect on their personal connection to patriotism and the many ways they support the United States in everyday life. Students are required to write and record a 3–5 minute audio essay expressing their views on the theme.

The deadline for all student entries is October 31, 2025.

The national winner will receive a $35,000 scholarship and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. Other national scholarships range from $1,000 to $21,000, with many additional awards at the local and state levels. At Belleview Memorial VFW Post 8083 1st place award of $500, 2nd place $250, 3rd place $100 respectfully.

Students interested in participating should contact Belleview Memorial VFW Post 8083 at vfwpost8083@yahoo.com or visit the official Voice of Democracy website at vfw.org/VOD for more information, eligibility requirements, and entry forms.

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