Scholarship Chairman: Danetta Wakefield

The VFW Auxiliary Scholarship Program is designed to encourage patriotism, assist students in attaining higher education, and help individuals reach their full potential. By offering these academic opportunities, the program supports local communities and members while raising public awareness of the organization’s mission.

The program features opportunities tailored to both adult learners and high school students. The Continuing Education Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible Auxiliary members, their spouses, and children who are at least 21 years old and demonstrating financial need. For younger generations, the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest and the 3-Dimensional Patriotic Art Contest invite students in grades 9–12 to express their patriotism through visual arts, with winning entries judged on theme and technique. Additionally, the Missouri Past National Presidents' Scholarship is awarded to two high school seniors who are the sister, brother, daughter, son, granddaughter, grandson, great-granddaughter, or great-grandson of a current member of the Department of Missouri Auxiliary/VFW.

In addition to its own unique contests, the VFW Auxiliary is proud to be a longtime supporter of the VFW and its extensive lineup of scholarships, contests, programs, and grants. This collaborative support includes promoting the Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition for students in grades 9–12, which dates back to 1947, as well as the Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for students in grades 6–8. The Auxiliary also actively backs the VFW’s "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" program, which has been providing vital financial assistance to qualifying service members and veterans since 2013 to help them complete their educational goals without excessive student loan debt.