Local
Tools
Typography

ALACHUA – The Alachua County Community Remembrance Project, Inc. – Alachua/Newnansville Sub-Committee has announced the launch of its 2025 Matthew Lewey Essay Contest, inviting middle and high school students to participate from May 1 to May 22, 2025. This year’s theme challenges students to explore the question: “What is Juneteenth and what does it mean to you?”

The essay contest is part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to youth education, encouraging students to improve their writing skills, enhance critical thinking, and discover local, state, and national historical facts. The contest also includes an art competition for elementary school students, expanding this year to welcome more participants and recognize additional winners.

Awards and Recognition Ceremony

Top essay winners from both middle and high school categories will receive monetary prizes and special recognition during an awards ceremony at the City of Alachua’s Juneteenth Celebration. The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex, located at 14300 N.W. 146th Terrace, Alachua. Art contest winners will also be honored during the ceremony.

Last year’s essay contest winners included Robert Hu (First Place), Kymani Davis (Second Place), and A’lani Harvey (Third Place), each recognized for their exceptional work.

Call for Community Support

The Alachua County Community Remembrance Project is seeking donations from local businesses and community members to support its recognition and remembrance initiatives. Contributions will fund the contest prizes and aid in expanding educational opportunities for local youth.

Donations can be made by check payable to Alachua County Community Remembrance Project, Inc., with “ACCRP 2025 Matthew Lewey Essay Contest” noted in the memo line. Contributions should be mailed to: ACCRP, P.O. Box 357685, Gainesville, FL 32635

For convenience, a member of the organization can also arrange to pick up donations at a preferred time and place. W-9 forms are available upon request. Call 816-863-8758 for additional information.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

View Comments