(Photo: RDNE Stock project)
Veterans continue to show higher levels of civic participation than their civilian peers, but the gap between the two groups has narrowed in recent years, according to the 2025 Veterans Civic Health Index released Sept. 18.
The report, compiled by ‘We the Veterans and Military Families’ in partnership with the National Conference on Citizenship, draws on U.S. Census Bureau data from the 2023 Volunteering and Civic Life Supplement and the 2022 and 2024 Voting and Registration Supplements. It found that while Veterans remain more likely to vote, donate, and volunteer more hours, both groups reported slight declines in civic involvement compared to earlier surveys.
Military Times, which first reported the findings, noted that Veterans continue to exceed civilians in several measures of civic engagement. In the 2024 election, 73 percent of Veterans cast ballots, compared to 66 percent of non-Veterans. Participation at the local level was also stronger among Veterans, with 64 percent voting in recent local elections, compared to 53 percent of civilians. Registration rates were similarly higher, continuing a pattern of consistent electoral engagement.
Volunteering rates between the groups were nearly identical, with 27 percent of Veterans and 28 percent of non-Veterans reporting volunteer work. But Veterans contributed more time, averaging 93 hours per year compared to 69 hours for civilians. They were also more likely to donate to non-political causes, join civic organizations, and spend time talking with neighbors. Altogether, Veterans contribute nearly half a billion volunteer hours annually, the equivalent of more than 200,000 full-time workers.
Still, those numbers represent a decrease from 2021 levels. Report author Chris Marvin said the decline appears across both groups, not just Veterans. Despite the drop, researchers emphasize that Veterans remain one of the most civically engaged groups in American society. Veterans also run for public office and serve in government roles at higher rates than civilians, reflecting a continued commitment to service beyond the military. Surveys show they are more likely to contact elected officials and to stay informed about current events.
The study states that post-9/11 Veterans now make up the largest portion of the Veteran community. This generation, many of whom served multiple deployments, carries forward lessons of teamwork and resilience into civic life. They are also more diverse in age, gender, and ethnicity than earlier cohorts, reshaping the face of Veteran civic engagement.
Family members of Veterans also exhibit signs of higher civic involvement, although the report states that further research is needed to measure their contributions accurately. Advocates argue that both Veterans and Military Families represent an underutilized resource for communities seeking experienced and mission-driven leaders.
“Civic groups should see Veterans not as people in need of help, but as assets ready to help solve problems,” Marvin said.
With just under 18 million Veterans and millions more family members connected to service, the report concludes that investing in their civic potential could help strengthen communities at a time when national trust in institutions is low.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
