Local students are invited to submit their thoughts on the topic of “Reaching Your Dreams by Choosing Optimism” before month’s end with a chance of winning a first, second or third place prize.

The contest deadline is December 1, and is meant to help assist students in developing the skills they need for written expression of their thoughts and ideas.

A first place prize of $100 from the winning essay, along with a $50 second place prize and a third place award of $25.

The winning essay will also get the chance to continue on in the Optimist Club’s zone-wide contest, which then has a chance to win the GATEway District prize for a $2,500 college scholarship.

The topic for this year’s Essay is “Reaching your Dreams by Choosing Optimism.” The Optimist Club’s Jennifer Hunton asks that essays be submitted to her by email at Jennifer.hunton@southcrestbank.com, and those seeking additional information can also reach out to her as well.

The Cedartown Optimist Club in recent days also made their annual contribution to the Optimist International Foundation, which in turn helps fund the essay and oratorical contests held by the club annually. Over the years, the local organization has given more than $2,000.

Find out more about the club’s activities on their Facebook page.