Voices of Impact Storytelling Competition

If Rhode Island's Health Equity Zones (HEZ)  are a part of your story, we want to hear it!

Everyone is a storyteller.

Rhode Island's HEZ initiative invites you to submit your original artwork showcasing your local HEZ and its value and impact on you, your family, and your community.

One  first-prize winner for each category will receive a $100 gift card, a creative art gift bag, and a public showcase of their piece. 

Closeup photo of a series of colored pencil tips
Photo of a white bust of a woman's face

Tell your story

The Voices of Impact Storytelling Competition seeks to capture and amplify the lived experiences of folks impacted by Rhode Island's HEZs.

The competition is open to all Rhode Island HEZ residents ages 13+.

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Photo

(With 50 -word commentary.)

  • HOPE: Take a photo that captures a moment of hope inspired by your Health Equity Zone community. This could be a snapshot of a community event, a personal accomplishment, or a small gesture of kindness. Include brief commentary on how this moment represents hope and positive change within your community.

  • CHANGE: Capture a portrait representing the face of change within your Health Equity Zone community. This could be a photo of someone impacted by your HEZ, an organization staff member, or even yourself. Include a brief commentary, sharing the story behind the face and how it symbolizes positive transformation.

  • NATURE: Capture a photo using nature as a metaphor for the impact of your Health Equity Zone community. This could be a scene from a community garden, a natural landscape, or any element of nature that symbolizes growth, resilience, and positive change. Include a brief commentary, drawing parallels between the natural metaphor and the impact of your local HEZ.

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Short Story

(100 words.)

  • HEROES: Craft a story of an unsung hero within your Health Equity Zone community. Illuminate the individuals or actions that often go unnoticed but play a crucial role in creating positive change. Celebrate the silent champions who contribute to its impact in subtle yet profound ways.

  • RIPPLES: Write a concise story that explores the ripple effect of a single positive action within your Health Equity Zone community. Illustrate how a small act of kindness or a community event creates a ripple, influencing and inspiring others to contribute to the positive momentum. Emphasize the interconnectedness of actions and their lasting impact.

  • CONNECTION: Write a story that explores the profound impact of human connection within your Health Equity Zone community. Highlight a moment where personal connections, relationships, or community bonds have played a pivotal role in creating positive change. Emphasize the transformative power of genuine human connections in fostering a supportive and thriving community.

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Poem 

(70-120 words)

  • RESILIENCE: Write a poem that explores the idea of resilience as deeply rooted strength. Consider how your experiences with your Health Equity Zone community have been the nourishing soil for resilience and growth. Use metaphors, vivid imagery, and powerful language to convey the essence of your journey.

  • HARMONY: Compose a poem that celebrates the diversity within your Health Equity Zone community. Reflect on how different voices, cultures, and perspectives harmonize to create a tapestry of strength. Explore the idea of unity in diversity, using your poetic expression to convey the beauty found in community with others.

  • EMPOWERMENT: Craft a poem that echoes the theme of empowerment within your Health Equity Zone community. Explore the ways in which your HEZ supports people as they take control of their health, voice, and overall well-being. Use rhythmic language and evocative imagery to convey the transformative power of that experience.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question Answer

What is the goal of this competition?

The goal of this competition is to understand the impact of the HEZ initiative from those directly involved in its day-to- day activities. In order for great work such as the HEZ initiative to continue, we have to see how well it's working and how it can improve.  

How long is this competition?

This competition is open until April 5, 2024.

What technology is needed to participate?

All you need is a device with Wi-Fi connection to complete the Google form and review, sign, and upload the Terms & Conditions document. Please note the appropriate file upload formats:

  • JPEG or PNG
  • DOC acceptable; DOCX preferred 

What are Rhode Island’s Health Equity
Zones and how do I know if I am a part of
one?

Health Equity Zones (HEZs) are specific areas throughout the state where people have come together to address issues that are most important to them and improve the health and well-being of their communities. HEZs work on making things like housing, food access, transportation, and education better for everyone. Find your local HEZ  and learn more about the work it’s doing in your community at health.ri.gov/hez .

What will happen with these entries after
the competition is over?

All winning entries will be showcased at the May 2024 HEZ Learning Community and featured in the in the HEZ Update–the official monthly newsletter of Rhode Island’s HEZ initiative. Some entries may also be featured on websites or in other promotional materials related to Health Equity Zones. All participants will receive their completed scoring rubric via email.

I don't want to participate but I still want to share my experience? How do I do that?

Please email marlena@socialcontract.org or david@socialcontract.org to learn more about community engagement opportunities, such as focus groups and surveys. We are here to listen.

 

Contest Rules

If you have any questions about the Voices of Impact competition or need support with a submission, please email marlena@socialcontract.org

  • All artwork submitted must be appropriate for all audiences. The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Social Contract have the right to use discretion when accepting artwork.
  • All submissions must be original work and submitted digitally.
  • One submission is allowed per person.
  • If you are under the age of 18, we require a signed parent/guardian release with your submission.
  • Submissions may also be showcased online, via social media outlets, in emails, or used in future program marketing. 
  • Images may be cropped to fit within printing dimensions. 
  • All submitted material becomes property of RIDOH and Social Contract. Submissions with the release, grant RIDOH and Social Contract permission to use content solely for promotional materials, conferences and publications. 
  • All individual contributors to this program retain the right to submit their work for non-exclusive publication elsewhere.