Priceless Peace by Bikram Singh, California

It’s the beginning of a new year, the perfect time to contemplate peace and the environment. With 2012 in full swing, the deadlines for two youth-focused events, an art contest and eco-awards, are fast approaching. Here’s more about them, and how you can get involved:

1) What About Peace? is a Global Exchange international arts contest for youth ages 14 – 20 to express ideas and thoughts about peace by responding to the question, “What About Peace?” through artistic expression.

What about Peace Hands Can Help by Michelle Cupp, Missouri

Are you finishing up your painting, choosing between photographs or assembling a collage?  Does your poem, short story or essay say everything you want it to convey about peace?  Because on February 15th we hope that your ideas for peace will be in our office and ready for the jurying process!

If you are a teacher, counselor or youth worker, please encourage your students to apply. Here’s a downloadable flyer you can print and share.

The Grand prize is $1000! Check out www.whataboutpeace.org for all the entry details.

To get your brain pumpin, here’s some unique painting style ideas:) Just remember to stick to the contest size rule (up to 18” x 24”).

2) Eco-Hero Awards recognizes accomplishments of young people ages 8 – 16 whose personal projects have significantly improved the environment. The awards are sponsored by Action For Nature.

The young people who contribute their stories, pictures, insights, and achievements are at the heart of what Action For Nature stands for. The Eco-Hero Awards gives young people both the motivation and the means to continue creating positive change for the natural world.

Award recipients receive up to $500 cash, an award certificate, and other forms of recognition. The application deadline is January 15, 2012. Visit the Action for Nature website for application requirements or email ian@actionfornature.org for more info.

An easy way to spread the word about both of these exciting events is Share and Tweet this post (buttons on top right of post.) Here’s to the next generation leading by example!