Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award
Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the brave men and women who have served our country. They have made many sacrifices to keep us safe, and we are forever in their debt. Sadly, many of our veterans are not getting the recognition they deserve. That’s why the VFW Teacher of the Year award is so important. It helps to raise awareness of the role of veterans in our society and ensures that future generations will never forget their contributions. The award also provides financial assistance to teachers who are committed to teaching Americanism and patriotism in their classrooms. This is a small way of saying “thank you” to our veterans, and it is a way of ensuring that their legacy will live on.
This is a great opportunity to recognize a teacher who is making a difference in the lives of their students by teaching them about America’s history and the role of our veterans. If you know a teacher who deserves this recognition, be sure to nominate them today and learn more at the link below:
Patriot’s Pen – Annual Youth Essay Competition
The Patriot’s Pen Program is a nationwide essay competition sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. It gives students in grades 6-8 the opportunity to express their views on an annual patriotic theme. Past themes have included patriotism, citizenship, and America’s history. Last year, more than 84,000 students participated in the contest. Essays must be 300-400 words in length and should be submitted to a local VFW post by October 31. Winners will be announced in early December. First-place winners from each state will compete for national prizes, including a $5,000 scholarship. For more information about the Patriot’s Pen Program and entry information visit the Patriot’s Pen page on VFW MN’s website.
Voice of Democracy Audio-Essay Scholarship Program
The Voice of Democracy audio-essay program was established in 1947 to provide high school students with an opportunity to express their views on democracy and patriotism. Each year, nearly 25,000 students from across the country enter the contest by recording an essay on a patriotic theme. The essays are judged on content, originality, and style, and the national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship. In addition, each VFW Department (state) awards a first place scholarship of at least $1,000 to its winner. This unique program provides students with a chance to win significant scholarships while expressing their beliefs. For more information about the Voice of Democracy audio-essay program, the Patriot’s Pen page on VFW MN’s website:
Substance Abuse Guidebook
Prior Lake VFW has good news for veterans who struggle with substance abuse. Now available through an program from Help.org, you can receive a variety of services for free from the VA including help detoxing, treatment in facilities, individual or group therapy, medications, and other services.
Check out the Substance Abuse Guide Book at the link below:
Veterans Guide – Proudly Serving Those Who Served
The Prior Lake VFW is proud to present the Veterans Guide. Their mission is to assist veterans with the array of issues they may face, including obtaining proper disability compensation, financial assistance, information on the GI bill, and more. They have created some helpful guides and will continuously be adding more. They want to make sure vets have all the resources necessary to ensure they struggle with their health and finances as little as possible. Check out the organization linked below:
Veterans Guide – veteransguide.org