General Information
What is the VFW Foundation?
The VFW Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) charitable organization of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. We provide financial assistance, educational programs, and support services to veterans, service members, and their families, funded entirely through the generosity of individual supporters, foundations, and corporate supporters across the country.
What is the mission of the VFW Foundation?
In the spirit of service, our mission is resolute: to serve our nation’s heroes and their families by securing resources for programs that facilitate enhanced life outcomes — now and for generations to come. We stand committed to transforming lives through dedication, ensuring no one is left behind.
How is the VFW Foundation different from the VFW?
The VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) is the membership organization which includes the Posts, the members, and legislative advocacy. The VFW Foundation is its official 501(c)(3) charitable arm, focused on securing and directing resources to fund programs that serve veterans, service members, and their families. While we operate in close alignment with the VFW, we are a distinct entity and your support through the Foundation goes directly to program funding.
How can I contact the VFW Foundation?
You can reach us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 816.968.1128.
Is the VFW Foundation a legitimate charity? What is your Charity Navigator rating?
Yes. The VFW Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 43-1758998). We are independently rated by Charity Navigator. To view our current rating and financial transparency reports, visit our profile directly on charitynavigator.org.
Membership and Services
I'm active duty. Am I eligible for VFW membership?
Yes, whether you’re active duty or retired, you may be eligible to join. VFW membership is open to active duty service members who have served or are serving in a qualifying area of foreign conflict. Visit vfw.org to check eligibility and find your local Post.
Can the VFW assist me with my VA claim?
Absolutely. The VFW’s National Veterans Service program has more than 1,900 VA-accredited service officers who are skilled in navigating the claims process. They’ve helped recover more than $13 billion in VA compensation for veterans, at no cost, ever. Learn more on our National Veterans Service page.
How do I get copies of my military records, such as a DD-214?
You can contact the National Personnel Records Center at 314.801.0800 or visit their website to request copies of your military records.
Am I allowed to bring my service animal into a VFW Post?
VFW Posts open to the public must follow ADA guidelines, which permit service animals. Private Posts should bring this question to a vote among their membership; however, the VFW broadly supports access for members with disabilities and their service animals. For more detail, visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s FAQ on service animals and the ADA.
I am not a veteran, but I have a family member who is. Can I join the VFW?
VFW membership requires overseas service in a qualifying area of foreign conflict. However, family members of qualifying veterans are welcome to join the VFW Auxiliary. Visit the VFW Auxiliary website or call 816.561.8655 for more information.
I served in Korea before the Korea Defense Service Medal was established in 2004. How can I verify that service?
Contact the National Personnel Records Center to request a DD-215 reflecting receipt of the Korea Defense Service Medal. Travel orders or military documentation showing service in Korea for at least 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days will also qualify as proof of VFW membership eligibility.
I may have received Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay, but I don't have my pay records. How do I obtain them?
Contact the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) for copies of your Leave and Earnings Statements (LES), or they can direct you to your service-specific finance office.
Donations and Individual Support
How do I donate to the VFW Foundation?
You can give online through our website, by mail, or over the phone. Visit our Ways to Give page for all options.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes. All contributions to the VFW Foundation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law. Our EIN is 43-1758998.
How much of my contribution goes directly to veterans?
Over the last decade, 72 cents of every dollar received was applied directly to veteran service, community service, legislative advocacy, and military service programs.
How can I donate a vehicle?
The VFW Foundation accepts vehicle donations, which support a variety of programs for service members, veterans, and their families. Your contribution is tax-deductible and can be arranged through our vehicle donation program. Visit our Ways to Give page for details.
How do I update my donor information or remove my name from your mailing list?
To update your information or remove your name from our mailing list, contact our Donor Services Department at [email protected] or call 1.833.VFW.GIVE (1.833.839.4483).
Why does the VFW send gifts to supporters?
We include token gifts in some mailings because many of our supporters appreciate and look forward to receiving them. These inexpensive items help us raise funds to support more veterans each year. To customize what you receive, contact our Donor Services Department at 1.833.VFW.GIVE (1.833.839.4483).
Programs and Services
What programs does the VFW Foundation fund?
The VFW Foundation funds programs across the full spectrum of veteran and military family needs from VA claims assistance and financial hardship relief to education scholarships, youth programs, disaster relief, and mental health support. Key programs include National Veterans Service, Unmet Needs, the Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship, Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, and more. Visit our Programs page to explore each one.
How can I apply for a grant or scholarship from the VFW Foundation?
Eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and deadlines vary by program. Visit our Programs page to find the right program for your situation and learn how to apply.
Are there scholarships available for veterans returning to school?
Yes. The Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship provides awards of up to $5,000 for veterans and service members pursuing higher education. Since 2014, more than $14 million in scholarships have been awarded to over 3,000 students. Visit the Help A Hero Scholarship page for eligibility and application details.
Corporate and Organizational Engagement
How can my company or organization get involved with the VFW Foundation?
We work with companies and organizations across a range of industries to align their brand values with meaningful support for veterans, service members, and their families. From convention opportunities to program-level engagements, there are a number of ways to get involved. Contact Tony Lowe, Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations, at [email protected], or visit our Corporate Engagement page to learn more.
What is the VFW National Convention, and how can my company support it?
The VFW National Convention is our signature annual event, bringing together VFW members, veteran advocates, elected officials, and organizational leadership from across the country. It’s one of the most visible platforms in the veterans space, and a meaningful opportunity for companies to demonstrate their commitment to those who have served. To learn about available convention support opportunities, visit our Convention Sponsorships page or contact us at [email protected].
Does the VFW Foundation work with nonprofit organizations or foundations?
Yes. The VFW Foundation actively seeks relationships with foundations and philanthropic organizations whose missions align with supporting veterans, military families, and communities. If your foundation is interested in learning more, please reach out to us at [email protected].
What kinds of companies engage with the VFW Foundation?
We work with companies across a wide range of industries: financial services, healthcare, insurance, technology, retail, restaurants, consumer brands, and more. Some align with specific veteran programs. Others activate their employees or customers around veteran causes. Some engage at the enterprise level for national brand alignment and executive access. The right fit depends on what your organization wants to accomplish. Our Corporate Giving page walks through the options.
What is the VFW Impact Fund?
The VFW Impact Fund is an unrestricted fund that supports the Foundation’s infrastructure, innovation, and highest-priority needs. A portion of every corporate engagement goes to the Impact Fund, ensuring your investment strengthens the entire Foundation, not just one program. It’s a transparent, flexible way to make sure veteran support keeps getting stronger year over year.
How do I request permission to use the VFW name or logo?
To request permission to use the VFW’s name, logo, or marks for print or commercial purposes, submit a completed authorization request form to the VFW Quartermaster General’s office or email [email protected].
Publications and Merchandise
How do I subscribe to VFW magazine if I am not a member?
Non-members can subscribe to VFW magazine for $15 per year (10 issues). View and print the subscription form at vfw.org.
I'm interested in writing for VFW magazine. How do I submit an article?
Freelance writers should review VFW magazine’s submission guidelines before submitting. Find current guidelines at vfw.org.
How do I find calendars, greeting cards, and other items received from the VFW?
These items are offered through the VFW Development Department. Contact them at 1.833.VFW.GIVE (1.833.839.4483) or email [email protected].
Staying Connected
How can I stay updated on VFW Foundation news and events?
Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on LinkedIn and social media, and visit our News page for the latest updates on programs, impact stories, and upcoming events.
Does the VFW endorse political candidates?
No. The VFW’s congressional charter prohibits the organization from endorsing or otherwise supporting political candidates or individuals running for public office.
Does the VFW Foundation have a presence in my local community?
Yes and it’s one of our greatest strengths. The VFW operates more than 6,000 Posts across all 50 states and U.S. territories, providing a level of local community presence no other veterans organization can match. The VFW Foundation’s programs reach veterans and families through that network, making national impact feel local.
How can I share my story or nominate a veteran for recognition?
Veteran stories are at the heart of what we do and we’re always looking for examples of those who are still Serving their communities. To share a story or submit a nomination, contact us at [email protected].