Owensboro, KY – February 11, 2025 – RiverValley Behavioral Health has announced the 5th Annual Youth Mental Health Art Contest.
This annual event provides young people in our communities with an opportunity to share their creative voices and raise awareness around mental health. The theme, “Be Kind to Your Mind,” encourages students to express messages of hope, understanding, and kindness through art.
Since its inception in 2021, this contest has grown to become a platform for youth to connect with their peers and raise awareness about mental health. In the past four years, RVBH has received more than 1,500 entries, awarded over $15,000 in scholarships and donations, and made a lasting impact on mental health awareness in local schools and youth organizations.
“The Youth Mental Health Art Contest continues to be a source of inspiration and empowerment for our youth, and we are thrilled to launch this year’s event,” said Dr. Wanda Figueroa, RVBH President & CEO. “Each year we are amazed by the creativity and powerful messages shared through art, reminding us of the importance of mental well-being. We look forward to seeing this year’s submissions and witnessing how our local artists use their voices to spread hope, resilience, and awareness throughout our communities.”
Students are invited to submit a visual art piece (drawing, painting, sculpture, poem, etc.) that promotes mental health awareness through positivity, compassion, and care. Entries are due by April 16, 2025, with finalists announced in May and an awards ceremony in June.
Winners in four categories—K-4, 5-8, 9-12, and College (18 24)—will each receive a $500 scholarship, with a matching donation to their school or organization. The organization with the most entries will be named Mental Health Partner of the Year and awarded $1,000.
“The art contest is truly one of our favorite annual events as we are able to recognize and showcase the talent of so many young artists in our 7-county region. Each year we are amazed at the creativity, thoughtfulness, and compassion expressed by the students,” said Brooke Arnold, Director of the RVBH Regional Prevention Center. “I always feel so grateful knowing that the school districts and other youth-serving organizations in our community encourage their students, attendees, and scholars to submit their artwork to promote positive mental health and wellness.”
RVBH is also accepting nominations for the Dianne McFarling Memorial Award, which honors an individual, organization, or group dedicated to improving mental health in our communities.
Nominations are open through April 16, 2025.
For more information on how to submit your art, make a nomination, or learn more about the contest, visit www.rvbh.com/artcontest.
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