RiverValley Behavioral Health has launched its annual Youth Mental Health Art Contest. The event encourages youth to express messages of hope and raise awareness about mental health through artistic expression, centered around the theme “Be Kind to Your Mind.”
The inaugural contest was held in May 2021 during the pandemic to support mental health awareness among youth. Over the last 3 years, RVBH has received more than 1,000 art submissions and has awarded more than $10,000 in scholarship funds and donations across local school districts and youth organizations.
“The Youth Mental Health Art Contest serves as a beacon of hope, reminding our youth of the vital importance of mental health. Through artistic expression, we aim to empower them and foster a sense of unity and hope,” said Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, RVBH President & CEO. “We extend our gratitude to our schools and youth organizations for their unwavering support of this event. Together, we strive to foster self-expression and convey a message of hope among the youth, united in our shared commitment to their growth and well-being.”
Students in grades K-college throughout the seven-county region (Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster) are invited to create and submit a visual art piece (drawing, painting, sculpture, poem, etc.) to share a message of support with the contest theme.
A $500 scholarship will be awarded to the project of the year winner in each division: K-4; 5-8; 9-12; and college (ages 18-24), with a matching contribution awarded to the school or organization chosen by the winners. The organization with the most entries will be named, “Mental Health Partner of the Year,” with an award of $1,000.
Entries must include a completed submission form and be postmarked or received by April 26. Finalists will be announced in May during Mental Health Awareness Month and invited to attend an awards ceremony in June.
To learn more or download the art submission form, click here.
RVBH is also accepting nominations for the Dianne McFarling Memorial Award, which will be announced during the awards ceremony. Nominations will be accepted through April 26.
The Dianne McFarling Memorial Award commemorates the work of the late Dianne McFarling, who served as the Senior Director of RiverValley’s Regional Prevention Center for 21 years. It is awarded to an organization, business, nonprofit, charity, school, group, or individual in the region that has demonstrated a commitment to improving mental health in our communities.
To learn more or make a nomination, click here.
