The Congressional Award, founded by Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop and the highest honor the U.S. Congress bestows on youth civilians, celebrates its 38th anniversary today.

The Congressional Award encourages American youths to become involved in their local communities. Since its founding, participants nationwide have contributed 8.1 million hours of service to their communities.

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., congratulated Congressional Award participants on their accomplishments over the years, noting that young people in Wyoming have excelled in the program, especially when compared to other states.  

“I support and encourage the young people of Wyoming to look into this program every chance I get,” Enzi said. “Wyoming has led the pack for Congressional Awards. More than 900 Wyoming students have received Congressional Awards and nearly 600 are actively participating. Last spring, only California and Florida had more Gold Medalists.”

The Congressional Award is attainable to any young person ages 14 – 24, regardless of ability or circumstance. Participants earn Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Medals. The award is not designed to recognize past achievements but instead encourages young people to set personally challenging goals for their immediate future. 

To learn more, visit www.congressionalaward.org.