VALLEY — The Optimist Club of Alamosa is encouraging area students to write an essay on this year’s topic: “Can Society Function Without Respect?”

Students under the age of 18 as of 10/1/17 and who are students not yet graduated from high school may submit their 700-800 word essays by January 26, 2018 to project chair Allyn Lewis.

The top three entries receive medals, cash awards, and local recognition. The first place essay will be sent to the district level to compete for a $2500 college scholarship.

Club members want students to share their opinions regarding the world in which they live, and it is their goal to do what they can to bring out the best in them. This club has been active in the community since 1991. Adams State University assists with this endeavor by providing teachers and/or advanced students as judges.

Other programs and service projects include: Avenue of Flags and Magic/Musical Show fund raising projects, Tri-Star Basketball competition, Youth Eyeglass Outreach, Christmas Project, Alamosa Elementary School Student Appreciation, Swim Day at Splashland, and various donations to Valley youth.

Call Allyn Lewis at 719-588-9410 for details, rules, and applications. Information and entry forms are also available on the Optimist International website “optimist.org.”