The third annual Substance Use Prevention Art Contest is now open, inviting middle and high school students across Rowan County to use their creativity to promote healthy choices and raise awareness about substance use prevention.
This year’s contest is sponsored by YSUP Rowan (Youth Substance Use Prevention Rowan), Rowan County Public Health and Center for Prevention Services, bringing together community partners committed to supporting youth and preventing substance misuse.
The contest theme centers on substance use prevention, encouraging students to express what prevention means to them through art. Submissions are welcome in a range of formats, including drawing, painting, digital art, photography, poetry or any other medium. Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories.
All middle and high school students in Rowan County are eligible to participate. Students are encouraged to be original and authentic in their work. All submissions must be the student’s own original creation and may not be generated using artificial intelligence (AI).
“Every year, we are amazed by the creativity and thoughtfulness of the entries,” said Kristen Estepp, project director for YSUP Rowan. “Through this contest, we’ve come to realize that our youth have strong feelings and important perspectives on substance use prevention. We can’t wait to see what they create this year.”
Students interested in participating must complete a registration form. To receive the form and additional details, participants can email Estepp directly at kristen@rowanysb.org.
Submissions will be accepted until March 31, and artwork will be featured in a community showcase on April 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Rowan County Events Center. Art will be displayed courtesy of Novant Health Rowan Medical Center. This event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and support local youth.
An initiative of Rowan County’s Youth Services Bureau, Inc., YSUP Rowan’s mission is to engage the community in creating conditions that will lead to the prevention and reduction of substance use by young people in order that they may build healthy, safe, and successful lives.
For more information, contact Estepp at kristen@rowanysb.org.
