Call for Entries: 2023 New Jersey Teen Media Contest Celebrates Everyday Moments

TRENTON, NJ – As of today, the New Jersey Department of Human Services is inviting teenagers across the state to begin submitting entries for the 28th Annual New Jersey Teen Media Contest, highlighting Human Services’ mission to support families.

              The contest, run by Human Services’ Division of Family Development, is open to all New Jersey middle- and high school-aged students. This year, the contest will once again accept entries in the hand-painted/hand-drawn and written word categories.

               This year’s contest challenges teens to illustrate – through art or the written word – the following theme: How do your parents or loved ones make everyday things special? What do they do to celebrate these small milestones and achievements?

               “This is a wonderful opportunity for young artists to showcase their talents through their artwork. Families come in all shapes and sizes but what matters is that children feel loved and supported. This contest helps us highlight the importance of supporting strong families. I encourage all budding artists in middle school and high school to submit an entry,” said Commissioner Sarah Adelman.

“Every year we are blown away by the talent that abounds in our state. I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions, and seeing the theme of celebrating everyday moments come to life,” said Deputy Commissioner of Social Services Elisa Neira.

“The Teen Media Contest is a unique and creative way for New Jersey teens to share their appreciation for their families,” said Division of Family Development Assistant Commissioner Natasha Johnson. “Even as time passes and family dynamics evolve, the Teen Media Contest continues to draw hundreds of submissions from talented young artists throughout the state.”

               All entries must be postmarked no later than April 26, 2023. Staff from the Division of Family Development, with representatives from various other organizations and/or corporations in the state, will judge the contest. Winners will be selected and prizes awarded in first, second, and third places in both the middle and high school groups, for each of the two entry categories. Winning entries from the contest will be included in the 2024 Office of Child Support Calendar.  

               The 2023 calendar with last year’s winners can currently be viewed or downloaded from thewww.NJTeenMedia.org. The website also provides the official rules, complete submission guidelines, entry forms, frequently asked questions, a look at the winners and honorable mentions from previous contests and other important contest information.

               Teachers and administrators can register their school by visiting www.NJTeenMedia.org, emailing NJTeenMedia@gmail.com, or by contacting Nicolette Omelczuk at 732-833-3783. Young artists can enter the contest directly without going through their school and no advance registration is necessary.

               For more information about child support services, call 1-877-NJKIDS1 or visit www.NJChildSupport.org.