Program
WHAT IS THE CONGRESSIONAL AWARD?
The Congressional Award is the United States Congress’ award for young Americans. It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive.
The program is open to all youth in the US between the ages of 14 and 24 regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status.
Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals. Each level involves setting goals in four program areas; Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.The enabling legislation (Public Law 96-114) established The Congressional Award as a private-public partnership, which receives all funding from the private sector. The legislation was originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter. Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald J. Trump have each signed continuing legislation.
The program is open to all youth in the US between the ages of 14 and 24 regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status.
You move at your own pace, on your own or with your friends. The Congressional Award has no minimum grade point average requirements. It accommodates young people with special needs or disabilities who are willing to take the challenge. This is not an award for past accomplishments. Instead, you are honored for setting goals, creating an action plan, and meeting the challenge.
Download our program book for the most in-depth look at the program from start to finish.This is
what is sent to participants upon
registering for the program.
This is what we send to participants upon registering for the program.
REGISTER
SET YOUR GOALS
WORK TOWARD YOUR GOALS
RECEIVE YOUR AWARD
Accordion Content