An essay contest open to area high school juniors and seniors will examine community service.
The contest is sponsored by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, and looks at how the students feel about community service and volunteer work, particularly if that work is required.
Does it foster good citizenship and cultivate compassion, or is it forced volunteerism?
Students are asked to give their points of view and convince readers to support their position, regardless of which side they support.
Essay forms are available online by visiting kansasmasonic.foundation, then clicking on Programs and Kansas Masonic Scholarships.
A combined $12,000 in prize money is up for grabs, including $4,000 to the first-place winner.
Essays must be submitted by Nov. 1.
