Value proposition

The United States Congress'​ award program for youth.

The Congressional Award Foundation is the United States Congress'​ award for young Americans. It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive. The program is open to all youth ages 13 1/2 - 24. 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.

Each June, youth from across the nation are honored in the US Capitol for earning Congress'​ highest award for youth - The Congressional Award Gold Medal. Dozens of Members of Congress join the celebration to present Medals to their constituents.

Throughout the year, additional events are held in Washington, D.C. where Members of Congress participate to raise awareness and funding from the private sector. The four signature events are the Chiefs of Staff Charity Poker Tournament, Gold Medal Ceremony, Golf Classic, and Youth & Technology Dinner. State Dinners & Receptions also occur on a rotating basis to help generate support for outreach efforts within those states.

Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition and Exploration