United Way agencies in Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties on Wednesday launched their second annual “Voices for 2-1-1” public service announcement contest for area high school students. The competition was started to raise awareness of United Way’s 211 helpline, while giving teenagers an opportunity to further develop their skills and to learn about careers in communications and media.
United Way of Westchester and Putnam and United Way of Rockland are partnering with Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino and Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell in promoting the contest.
United Way officials in a press release said topics of the public service announcements, or PSAs, may be 211 services in general or a specific area of 211 assistance, such as food assistance, housing, employment, heating, abuse, elder care, mental health, substance abuse, medical help, foster parenting or disaster services.
Students can submit a 60-second radio or video PSA by April 10. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners and the winning announcements will be broadcast by radio station 100.7 WHUD.
“Many of our residents are not aware of the valuable services offered through United Way”™s 211 helpline,” Astorino said in the press release. “With the help of our smart and creative high school students, we can change that, while at the same time cultivate these young minds for successful careers in communication.”
“United Way”™s 211 is a critical service to Putnam County,” Odell said. “I am so glad to see students not only gaining experience, but also spreading the word to people in need about how to get help.”
The top three winners in each category, radio and video, will be chosen by a panel of judges representing media, government, nonprofits and corporate communications.
