The highest youth leadership program recognized by the U.S. Congress, fostering future leaders through personal development and community contribution.
The Congressional Award is the United States Congress' only charity and the highest honor bestowed upon America's youth for their commitment to voluntary public service, personal development, and physical fitness.
Youth Leadership Development Program
| Program Area | Bronze Certificate | Silver Certificate | Gold Certificate | Bronze Medal | Silver Medal | Gold Medal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Public Service | 30 hours | 60 hours | 90 hours | 100 hours | 200 hours | 400 hours |
| Personal Development | 15 hours | 30 hours | 45 hours | 50 hours | 100 hours | 200 hours |
| Physical Fitness | 15 hours | 30 hours | 45 hours | 50 hours | 100 hours | 200 hours |
| Expedition/Exploration | 1 day | 2 days | 3 days | 2 days / 1 night | 3 days / 2 nights | 5 days / 4 nights |
| Minimum Total Hours | 60 hours | 120 hours | 180 hours | 200 hours | 400 hours | 800 hours |
| Minimum Months Required | None | None | 6 months | 7 months | 12 months | 24 months |
Participants must be ages 14 to 23. Registration is allowed at age 13.5.
All four program areas must be completed at each level. Partial completion does not count.
Time requirements are cumulative. Hours and months can carry over from one level to the next.
Activities must be sustained over the minimum number of months. Completing all hours in a short period is not sufficient.
Expedition/Exploration must include overnight experiences for Medal levels.
All activities must be pre-approved after registration and written goals submitted.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Congressional Award Program Book (PDF).
Develop social responsibility and community awareness through volunteer service activities.
Acquire new skills and knowledge to pursue personal growth and development.
Form a healthy lifestyle through activities that improve physical health and fitness.
Develop adventurous spirit and exploration skills through new environments and challenges.
Register on the official Congressional Award website and find an Advisor.
Set goals in all four areas and establish activity plans.
Regularly record progress and consult with your Advisor.
Gold Medal Recipient
"Through the Congressional Award, I was able to develop leadership skills and contribute to the community. This experience was also very helpful for college admissions."
Silver Medal Recipient
"Through this program, I was able to develop both personal growth and social responsibility. I was able to cultivate qualities as a future leader."
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