JERSEY SHORE – High school students in Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties can compete for two $3,000 scholarships through the YMCA of the Jersey Shore’s 2027 Martin Luther King Jr. essay contest.
Applications and essays must be emailed to giving@ymcanj.org by 5 p.m. November 20.
Each of the two winners will receive a $3,000 academic scholarship and a one-year youth membership at the YMCA’s Red Bank, Freehold, Old Bridge or Ocean County location. Scholarship sponsors include Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey Natural Gas and PorterPlus Realty.
The contest asks students to consider how King’s teachings about service and standing up for what is right can guide their actions at school and in their communities. Entrants should describe ways they have practiced honesty, empathy, responsibility and service, then propose one specific step students, schools or youth organizations could take immediately to help others.
Students must also complete a brief application describing their interests, activities and community service.
Laurie Goganzer, the YMCA’s president and CEO, said the competition gives young people an opportunity to share their experiences and ideas while recognizing their ability to improve their communities.
This marks the second year the contest has included Ocean County students.
Winners will read their essays at the YMCA’s 38th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Breakfast on Jan. 15, 2027. They and their parents or guardians will be invited to the event at Warehouse 100 at iPlay America, 104 Schanck Road in Freehold.
The breakfast is moving to the larger venue to accommodate more attendees.
John E. Harmon Sr., founder, president and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, will deliver the keynote address.
The program will also recognize Suzanne Keller of The Source at Red Bank Regional High School with the Human Dignity Award; Steve Heisman of HABcore with the Community Champion Award; Carol Stillwell with the Social Responsibility Award; and Samvarth “Samvi” Raj as Youth Changemaker.
Michael A. Wright, the YMCA’s chief volunteer officer and event committee chairman, said the annual gathering encourages young people to become involved and carry forward King’s commitment to service and social justice.
Contest requirements, application materials and breakfast sponsorship details are available at ymcanj.org/mlk.
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