The Joe Foss Institute is a nonprofit organization in the United States that promotes civic education programs.[1] It was founded in 2001 by general and politician Joe Foss, and is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona.[2]
The Institute was founded in 2001 by General Joseph J. Foss and his wife Donna Foss to promote civic education in the United States.[3] It offers educational programs for youth groups and public school students,[4] involving events like veterans visiting schools to talk about their experiences or the screening of patriotic films,[5] including a film about the life of Foss.[2] The institute also awards scholarships to students who win video and essay competitions.[6][7][8]
In 2015, the organization campaigned to make passing the American Civics Test, which is administered as a requirement for naturalized citizens, a requirement of graduating high school.[9][5]
The institute holds an annual Stars in Service event to honor national heroes, educators and public servants.[10][11] Traditionally held in Arizona, past speakers have included Charles Krauthammer, Carl Bernstein and Richard Dreyfuss.[3]