Helping children succeed is a focus area in UWNEMN’s investment plan, and how better to determine ways to do that than ask local youth themselves?
UWNEMN is excited to launch its Youth United Contest, offering $10,000 in scholarships for high school seniors who answer the question, “what do you see as the biggest need or challenge in your community, and what are your thoughts on how UWNEMN or similar groups can meet that need or address that challenge?”
Answers can be submitted in writing (750 words or less) or video (five minutes or less) on UWNEMN’s website. They will be judged based on content, vision, and community service/awareness.
“This is not an English assignment – this contest is more focused on students’ ideas than their grammar,” said UWNEMN Community Impact Director Katy Lofquist. “We truly want to hear from as many local students as possible. Every voice is important!”
The contest is open to all high school seniors across UWNEMN’s service area including the Iron Range, Koochiching County, and Lake of the Woods County. A full list of eligible schools can be found online. Home school students are also eligible to participate with proof of residence.
Submissions will be accepted November 1, 2023, through January 5, 2024, and winners will be announced in March 2024. Scholarships will be awarded for expenses related to a four-year college, two-year college, or trades school. The minimum scholarship will be $1,000.
Contest rules and details can be found at www.unitedwaynemn.org/youth-united.