Unleash the PAWsibilities creative contests is now open

Calling all young creators, Unleash your PAWsibilities

The Dog Park Affiliation of Wareham is now accepting submissions for its eighth annual Unleash the PAWsibilities Area Youth Creative Contests through Aug. 10.

The contests are open to children ages 5 to 16, who may submit artwork, creative writing or both. Entries will be judged in three age groups: ages 5-8, 9-12 and 13-16.

This year's themes are:

• Celebrating creatures great & small in my backyard & beyond
• What makes your favorite animal special?

Contestants can enter one or both contests.  Artwork may be any two-dimensional medium or mixed media and must not exceed 9 by 12 inches. Creative writing entries may include poems, essays, stories, letters, lyrics or other original works.

Local artists and writers will judge the entries. Winners in each age group and category will receive trophies, and one participant will earn the Best in Show Combo Award. All those who submit work are entered into a prize pool raffle. 

A family celebration and awards ceremony will be held Friday, Aug. 21, at the Gleason Family YMCA, where trophies and raffle prizes will be presented. Winners do not need to be present to receive prizes.

All contest entries will be displayed at the Wareham Post Office throughout September.

Entries may be dropped off at the Wareham Free Library, 59 Marion Road, or the Gleason Family YMCA, 33 Charge Pond Road. Visit warehamdogpark.org for contest rules, entry forms and tips. Registration forms are also available at both drop-off locations. Those unable to print a form may include the required registration information with their submission.

For more information, email sammorrison@comcast.net.