The Eden Prairie Optimist Club is inviting local students to enter its annual essay contest, which encourages reflection on optimism’s role in success and unity.
This year’s theme, “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success,” challenges students to explore how optimism has shaped their journey and empowered them to inspire others.
The deadline to submit essays is 5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10.
Students under 19 as of Oct. 1, 2024, in Eden Prairie and neighboring cities without an Optimist Club contest are eligible. Essays must be 700 to 800 words and follow contest guidelines.
The competition is divided into three age groups to ensure fair judging. Winners will receive medallions and Barnes & Noble gift certificates. The top essay will advance to the district level, where the writer will compete for a $2,500 college scholarship funded by the Optimist International Foundation.
An awards reception is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 25, at Star Bank Eden Prairie.
For contest details, visit the Eden Prairie Optimist Club’s Facebook page or contact Ryan Affolter at ryanaffolter.optimist@gmail.com or 612-432-2827.
According to a media release, the contest provides a platform for students to explore optimism’s impact on overcoming cultural divides, fostering collaboration, and initiating positive change.
“Young people today have so many fresh ideas about the world and their future,” said Affolter, a member of the EP Optimist Club. “As Optimists, it is our goal to encourage them and do what we can to bring out the best in each of them. This gives them a wonderful opportunity to tap into their creativity and pursue possible scholarships at the same time.”
Since its founding in 1978, the nonprofit Eden Prairie Optimist Club has hosted various youth initiatives, including the essay contest, oratorical contest, Minnesota Sings, Hooked on Fishing, and the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society Solar Boat Regatta.
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