‘My Older American Hero’ Contest For Middle Schoolers

Is your grandfather your hero? Is there a neighbor who you regard with special esteem? Has an older teacher played a significant role in your life? In recognition of Older Americans Month and to celebrate the special place in our lives that older Americans play, Ashlar of Newtown is sponsoring “My Older American Hero” essay competition for middle school students in Connecticut. Five to ten essays will be selected and a winner will be named by public vote on Ashlar of Newtown’s website.  The winning essayist and his/her subject will each win a $100 gift certificate.

“When we think of the word hero, we tend to think of someone who has performed daring acts of bravery. But the little things that someone does –– such as reading, fishing, baking, and just taking the time to chat with a young person –– can make them a hero. We wanted to provide young people a way to pay tribute to the older adults in their lives who they look up to, and who have, through their actions, words, or by example, impacted their lives,” says Hilda DeLucia, community resources manager, Ashlar of Newtown.

Essays should be between 50 and 100 words, and profile someone who is 55 or older and who the student knows personally. Entrants should describe who the person is and why he/she is considered a hero. A committee will review the essays and select five to ten essays to be posted on the Ashlar of Newtown/Masonicare website (www.Masonicare.org). Throughout the month of June, the public will be encouraged to visit the website and vote for the most compelling story. One winner will be selected and both the writer and subject of the winning essay will receive a $100 gift certificate to the store or restaurant of his/her choice.

Forms can be found online at www.masonicare.org or by calling Ms DeLucia, at 364-3127. Essays must be postmarked or submitted by email between May 1 and 31. Include the student’s name, address, telephone number, name of middle school, grade and parent(s)’ name. Winners will be announced in late June. Send your entries to Hilda DeLucia, Community Resources Manager, Ashlar of Newtown, 139 Toddy Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470, or by email to hdelucia@masonicare.org. For further information, or to request an entry form, call 364-3127.