GOSHEN, Ind. -- The City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission announced Monday that it is kicking off its third annual essay contest with submissions due by 5 p.m. on March 1. 

City officials say the essay contest is meant, "to challenge the city’s future leaders to rethink what it takes to build a community where every neighbor can live, work, and learn in their fullest potential."

Contest entries will be divided into two age groups, 7-8 grade and 9-12 grade, and is open to any student with a Goshen address.

First, second, and third prizes will be awarded in each of the two grade groups with the first-place winner from each group having the opportunity to present their essays at the Goshen Chamber of Commerce's Founder’s Day Celebration.

"Students will be encouraged to imagine what is needed to create communities that are safe and welcoming for everyone," said Goshen Community Relations Manager Hannah Scott-Carter. 

Students interested should answer the following prompt:

Imagine you are a member of a group working to make your community safe and welcoming for everyone. Write an essay that explores at least three of the following:

What does it mean for a community to be safe and welcoming for all? Describe the important things that make people feel safe in their community.

Share a story about a time when you or someone you know didn't feel safe in your neighborhood or community. Explain why they felt that way and what could be done to make things better.

Think of three ideas or actions that this group could do to make your community safer and more welcoming for everyone. Describe these ideas and why they are important.

Talk about any challenges the group might face when trying to create a safer community. How do you think these challenges can be overcome?

What do you think people who live in the community can do to help make it safe and welcoming for everyone? Share your thoughts on what individuals can do to support the group's efforts.

Essays should be submitted through the Google Form found here.

To be considered, submissions must include the essay saved as a PDF, completed essay registration form submitted as a photo or PDF, and a W-9 form submitted as a photo or PDF.