Founding Forward Program

Since 1987, AMVETS has offered this unique educational experience at Founding Forward (formerly known as Freedom's Foundation) in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, to give young people a better appreciation of their freedoms granted by the United States Constitution.

Program Details

• Event Date: November 7-10, 2024 (for 2024-2025 school year)
• Duration: Four-day conference
• Location: Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
• Sponsorship: Illinois AMVETS Service Foundation annually selects high school students to attend representing Illinois AMVETS and its members

Topics Covered

• Freedom, civil rights and civic responsibilities
• Citizenship and public policy
• Self-development and leadership
• Entrepreneurship and salient aspects of American history

Program Components

• Leadership skills workshops
• Group skills activities
• Discussions with fellow participants
• Opportunities to participate in discussions with authoritative and articulate representatives from government, industry, and the academic community
• Programs designed to explore interpersonal characteristics and leadership potential

Eligibility Requirements

• Students must be at least 16 years of age
• Must be a 10th or 11th grader at the start of the school year
• Must be Illinois resident

Funding Covered

• Cost of flight paid by Illinois AMVETS Service Foundation
• Registration fees paid by Illinois AMVETS Service Foundation

Required Materials

• Official high school transcript
• Letter of recommendation from an AMVETS member

Contact Information

Illinois AMVETS Headquarters

• Address: 2206 South Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62703
• Phone: 217.528.4713
• Executive Director: Joe Bartley
• Communications Director: Luanne Loving

Application Process

• Application submitted online
• Click "Apply Now" button to access application portal
• Required Materials:
- Official high school transcript - Letter of recommendation from an AMVETS member