Get Involved

Discover ways to actively participate in VA250 celebrations, whether it's using your trip to Charlottesville and Albemarle County to write your Civics Bee application or starting a book club using resources from the Charlottesville area.

Scroll left and right to find opportunities to actively participate in VA250 celebrations.

National Opportunity

America’s Field Trip

For grades 3 – 12; essay or artwork submissions due end of March 2026

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WRITE FREEDOM: A Creative Writing Contest at JSAAHC

Deadline March 31, 2026

250 years after 1776, what does freedom mean to you? Submit your original reflection on the legacy of the Revolutionary era and the meaning of freedom today, inspired by the exhibitions at the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center.

Apply Here

Monticello’s Declaration Book Club

The Declaration Book Club features short readings, lively videos, and tools to spark discussion of our past, present, and future.

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National Opportunity

Watch Ken Burns’ The American Revolution

The American Revolution examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down.

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National Opportunity

Teach Using Ken Burns’ American Revolution

The American Revolution examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down. Use the link below to find study guides based on the documentary.

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National Opportunity

America Gives

Now through December 1, 2026

Help make 2026 a record setting year of volunteer service. Join people and organizations across the country in giving back — from service projects to donations — to honor America’s 250th. Add your volunteer hours to the count!

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National Opportunity

Our American Story

Our American Story is a storytelling project aimed at collecting and preserving our nation’s stories. Nominate a living person — a friend, family member, neighbor, or community leader — whose story you think needs to be shared and preserved.

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Statewide Opportunity

Take the 250 Challenge

Test your knowledge of history and civics! Answer 10 questions from the USCIS Naturalization Test for new citizens and Virginia Standards of Learning for students. Share your results and challenge your friends. Questions update monthly.

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