Congressional Award

The Congressional Award, established in 1979, is Congress’ highest civilian honor for young Americans. The Award recognizes determination, public service, and character development in American youth.

It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive. The program is open to all from ages 14 to 24 years old; prospective participants may register at 13 1/2 years old and are eligible to submit for the award at age 14.

The Award has six different honor levels that participants can earn: Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Medals. Each level of the Award has specific requirements that the participant must meet. Participants can choose which level they would like to start with and can go at their own pace. Gold Medals are presented at an annual ceremony in Washington, D.C.

The Congressional Award focuses on four areas:

voluntary public service;
personal development;
physical fitness; and
expedition/exploration activities.

Involvement in activities like 4-H, Scouting, aerobics, school and community sports, camping and other outdoor activities, high school clubs and activities, and other extracurricular activities can help you achieve medal status in the Congressional Award. The Congressional Award has no minimum grade point average requirements.

Earning the Award is a way to get more involved in something you already enjoy or something you’d like to try for the first time. Applicants can move at their own pace – on their own or with friends. This is not an award for past accomplishments. Rather, the Award is intended to honor young Americans for achieving the challenging goals they set for themselves upon registering for the program. It accommodates young people with special needs or disabilities who are willing to take the challenge.

To learn more about the Congressional Award program or to register, visit the Congressional Award website here. Watch an in-depth introduction video here.

Issues: In the District