CT Family Day Seeking The Next Great Poster Artist

Connecticut Family Day is a statewide event established in 1997 and first celebrated in 1998.

Family Day began with a simple essay written by a young person in response to a contest run by Senator Joseph J. Crisco (CT 17th District).

In 14 years Family Day has continued through collaboration across state agencies and community organizations with the primary objective of honoring and celebrating Connecticut families. It is observed in September, with community activities held across the state.

In honor of the 15th anniversary of Connecticut Family Day, the Family Day Planning Committee has announced the Youth Poster Design Contest.

The word family means many different things to different people. Culture, family composition, and life experiences often define family. Connecticut Family Day organizers are encouraging young artists to create a poster that explains what family means to them.

The deadline for posters is Friday, May 25, and requirements include the following:

*Use an 8½- by 11-inch piece of white paper;

*Include a handprint (or handprints) as the overall theme of your poster;

*Don’t try to include too many ideas or activities on your poster (a single message, clearly illustrated, is more effective);

*Entries must be the contestant’s original, hand done creation and may not be traced from photographs or other artists’ published works; and

*Entrants must be Connecticut residents in grades K–12.

There will be one winning first place design that will be incorporated into the 2012 official Family Day poster, other official Family Day print material, banners and on the Connecticut Family Day website. The first place winner will also receive $200 and a family weekend getaway in Connecticut.

Prizes of $100 and a gift certificate for a family restaurant will also be awarded to the second and third prize winners. The top three winners, as well as those selected for honorable mention, will all be featured on the Connecticut Family Day website.

Winners will be selected from three age categories: Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.

Entry forms, which need to be signed by a parent, guardian or teacher, are available at CTFamilyDay.org and also through Newtown Youth & Family Services, at www.newtownyouthandfamilyservices.org.

For additional information visit either of those websites or contact Jacqueline Ford, Connecticut Department of Children & Families, at 860-550-6637 or jacqueline.ford@ct.gov.