Art Contest: Healthy Choices, Healthy Communities

Children and Adults are Encouraged to Participate

The contest is open to anyone age 4 years or older who lives in Wyandotte County. We encourage children and adults across age groups to participate! For participants under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must provide consent on the Art Contest Submission Form.

Review the Official Rules

See the Rules tab for design requirements, how entries will be evaluated, and more details on how to enter the contest.

Choose a Health and Wellness Theme (or Multiple Themes!)

Each participating artist must create a piece of artwork that illustrates how promoting healthy habits and prevention can protect and improve the health of our community and its members. See a list of suggested health topics in the Rules tab.

Complete the Art Contest Submission Form

2025 Art Contest Submission Form (English)(PDF, 155KB)

2025 Art Contest Submission Form (Spanish)(PDF, 163KB)

Fill out the "Artist Information" section and be sure to sign the "Consent Form" section. For artists under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign the consent form.

Submit Entries by August 8, 2025

Please include the Art Contest Submission Form along with your original artwork. Submit contest entries in-person at the Wyandotte County Public Health Department, the Bonner Springs City Library, or at any Kansas City, Kansas Public Library location.

Prizes

1 grand prize winner will receive a $300 VISA gift card. The grand prize winner's artwork will be featured on the cover of a 2026 Public Health Department Calendar.

12 additional winners will receive a $100 VISA gift card. The artwork of these winners will be featured on the 12 months of the 2026 Public Health Department Calendar.

Gift cards are provided courtesy of the Kansas City, Kansas Public Library.

Partners and Sponsors

Special thanks to the Kansas City, Kansas Public Library and Bonner Springs City Library for partnering on programming for the community art contest. We'd also like to thank the Kansas City, Kansas Public Library for sponsoring the prizes for contest winners and BLICK Art Materials for helping sponsor the art kits.

The project is supported in part by the Network of the National Library of Medicine. The contents are those of the author and may not reflect the policies of NNLM, NIH, or the U.S. Government.

Full Contest Rules

Contents:

• Eligibility
• Dates
• Design Requirements
• Evaluation Criteria
• Prize
• How to Enter
• After the Contest
• Questions?
• Download PDF files: Official Rules and Art Contest Submission Form

Eligibility

• Must live in Wyandotte County
• Ages 4 and up

Dates

• Start Date: July 1, 2025
• Deadline Submission: August 8, 2025

Design Requirements

Artist must create a piece of artwork that illustrates how promoting healthy habits and prevention can protect and improve the health of our community and its members. You may focus on one or more of the groups listed below. Consider any prevention topics that are important to you—here are the health and wellness themes to choose from:

• Chronic Disease Prevention (diabetes prevention, screenings)
• Environmental Health (avoiding exposure of pollutants, safe use of chemicals, importance of clean water and air, livable spaces)
• Healthy Moms and Healthy Babies (prenatal care, breastfeeding, safety, home visiting)
• Hygiene and Infectious Disease Prevention (hand washing, food safety, preventing the spread of germs)
• Injury and Accident Prevention (home safety tips, use of helmets/seat belts/car seats, child proofing, safe sleep)
• Mental Health and Wellbeing (techniques, coping skills, importance of social support)
• Nutrition and Healthy Eating (balanced diet, portion control, reducing sugar and salt intake)
• Physical Activity and Exercise (benefits, examples)
• Sexual Health and Safe Practices (sexually transmitted infection prevention, contraceptive options, importance on regular check-ups)
• Smoking Cessation and Tobacco Prevention (risks, strategies, resources)
• Substance Abuse Prevention (risks, strategies, resources)

Artwork must be submitted as an original physical copy, 2 dimensional (no sculptures or other 3-dimensional artwork will be accepted), a square that is a minimum of 7 x 7 inches in size (maximum 20 x 20 inches). Artists may use the art supplies of their choice.

Diagram illustrating artwork dimensions, example of a 9 x 12 in. piece of paper with a 9 x 9 in. drawing, and an illustration of how the winning artwork will appear in the 2026 Wyandotte County Public Health Department Calendar.

Evaluation Criteria

Selected judges will evaluate all submissions using the rubric below. The top 24 pieces will be chosen for community voting. If your artwork is selected as one of the top 24, you will be notified.

• Originality and Creativity (0-5 points): Artwork shows unique ideas and originality.
• Theme Relevance (0-5 points): Artwork clearly reflects the contest theme.
• Effort and Presentation (0-5 points): Artwork is neat, appealing, appropriate for age level, use of color and space.
• Impact (0-5 points): Artwork is inspiring.
• Overall (0-5 points): Overall presentation.

Prize

There will be a total of 12 winners winning a $100 VISA Gift Card and one (1) grand prize winner for the front cover calendar will receive a $300 VISA Gift Card.

How to Enter

• Only one piece of artwork may be submitted per person.
• Artists must write their name and age on the back of their artwork. Names should not appear on the front of the piece for impartial judging of the artwork.
• Each artwork and the submission form must be turned into any of the Kansas City Kansas or Bonner Springs City Library Branches or the Wyandotte County Public Health Department by August 8, 2025.

Art Contest Submission Form (English)(PDF, 155KB)

Art Contest Submission Form (Spanish)(PDF, 163KB)

Locations to Submit Contest Entries  

Wyandotte County Public Health Department
619 Ann Ave
Kansas City, KS 66101

Bonner Springs City Library
201 N. Nettleton Ave
Bonner Springs, KS 66012

Kansas City, Kansas Public Library Locations:

Main Library
625 Minnesota Ave
Kansas City, KS 66101

F.L. Schlagle Library
4051 West Dr.
Kansas City, KS 66109

South Branch Library
3104 Strong Ave.
Kansas City, KS 66106

Turner Community Library
831 S. 55th St.
Kansas City, KS 66106
(in the Turner Rec Center)

West Wyandotte Library
1737 N. 82nd St.
Kansas City, KS 66112

After the Contest

Original artwork can be picked up from the Wyandotte County Public Health Department, 619 Ann Ave Kansas City, KS 66101, after winners have been announced. Artwork that is not picked up by December 31, 2025, will be discarded.

Questions?

Please email healthcomms@wycokck.org or call (913) 573-8865.

The project is supported in part by the Network of the National Library of Medicine. The contents are those of the author and may not reflect the policies of NNLM, NIH, or the U.S. Government.

Download PDFs

Official Rules (English)(PDF, 296KB)

Official Rules (Spanish)(PDF, 304KB)

Art Contest Submission Form (English)(PDF, 155KB)

Art Contest Submission Form (Spanish)(PDF, 163KB)

Want to participate but don't have art supplies on hand? Not to worry! Free art supply kits are available for pick-up, while supplies last. Limit of one kit per household.

Kits are available at the Wyandotte County Public Health Department starting July 1. Kits coming soon to Kansas City, Kansas Public Library locations and the Bonner Springs City Library.

We will also be at community events with free art kits and contest information! Stop by and see us at one of these upcoming library events:

• Saturday, July 12th, 10 AM: Tai Chi at the Bonner Springs City Library
• Thursday, July 17th, 3 – 4 PM, Drawing From Nature: Kansas City Zoomobile is Coming! At the West Wyandotte Library

Art kits include:

• 8 in x 10 in sketch pad
• Colored pencils
• Pencil sharpener

In the most recent Wyandotte County Community Health Assessment, people living in Wyandotte County ranked chronic diseases the number four biggest health concern in the WyCo Community Concerns Survey. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, major risk factors for chronic diseases are smoking, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. The CDC also notes that, "some groups are more affected than others because of factors that limit their ability to make healthy choices." Learn more on the CDC's About Chronic Diseases webpage.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• KanQuit is a state-wide program offering free support quitting tobacco or vaping. Anyone in Kansas can get services by calling 1 (800) QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or going online to KSquit.org.
• We offer nutrition-related services for eligible women, infants, and children through the Wyandotte County WIC program, including providing nutritious foods, support for breastfeeding, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care.
• Find opportunities to get active through the UG Parks & Recreation department.
• See the KC Metro Resource Guide to find recovery and health services in the Kansas City area, including alcohol treatment services.

Access to clean, non-hazardous environments is an important part of health and wellbeing for any community. This includes indoor and outdoor environments at home, work, school and play.

Health information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• The kNOw Lead KCK program offers lead remediation for homeowners and renters who qualify.
• Learn about our Air Quality program.
• Get information about environmental inspections and permits, including pool permits and septic permits.
• See how the Child Care Licensing program helps ensure safety of child care environments in our county. 

Health for moms and babies starts with protecting health before pregnancy, getting care and support for a healthy pregnancy, and support for the wellbeing of both mom and baby when the child is born and through early years of development.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

Explore health department services that support the health of moms and babies.

We can all take steps to help prevent the spread of germs. Things as simple as hand washing or staying home when sick can make a big difference! Healthcare and public health also play a role in helping prevent the spread of disease in our community.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• Search our Clinical and Non-Clinical Services to find direct health services for individuals and families, including services to help prevent illness and promote wellbeing, laboratory testing, and treatment for common symptoms.
• Healthcare providers are required to report certain diseases to public health agencies to help prevent further spread of disease. Learn more on our Disease Reporting for Providers page. 
• See Kansas Reportable Infectious Disease Statistics from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Unfortunately, accidents are one of the leading causes of death in Wyandotte County and in Kansas and the U.S. The good news is there are steps we can all take to reduce the risk of injury and accidents. This includes motor vehicle safety, like seat belts and car seats, and precautions to stay safe at work and play.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• Our Car Seat Service provides car seats to families in Wyandotte County, as well as installation demonstration, car seat installation check, and education.
• Our clinic offers Physical Exams, including sports physicals and pre-employment physicals.

During the most recent Wyandotte County Community Health Assessment, people living in Wyandotte County ranked mental health as their number three biggest health concern in the WyCo Community Concerns Survey. Learn ways to take care of your mental health and support good mental health for your loved ones and your community.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• 988 Lifeline: You can call or text 988 or chat online 24/7 for free, confidential help for anyone in need of support. You can use 988 services whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to.
• Wyandot Behavioral Health Network provides behavioral health resources for adults, children, and families, as well as resources for people experiencing homelessness. They provide a 24-hour crisis line at (913) 788-4200.
• Mental Health America of the Heartland provides mental health education and awareness programs, advocacy and recovery services, and the Heartland Housing Initiative. They also offer a Compassionate Ear Warmline from 9 AM t 9 PM at 1-866-927-6327, which is a peer-run service that provides non-crisis listening and support.

Good nutrition helps support good health and prevent health issues throughout the lifespan.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) provides nutrition support for women who qualify during pregnancy and breastfeeding and for babies and young children.
• Healthy Families Wyandotte is an intensive home visiting program for pregnant women and families who want to improve their child's health and development. One part of the program includes discussing nutrition along with other health-related goals and support.

Physical activity helps protect our bodies and minds. It can help people feel well in their daily lives and can reduce the risk of health problems in the future. Being physically active is beneficial for people of all ages. Specific guidelines for type and amount of physical activity vary by age and other factors such as health conditions. See resources below for more information.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• Find opportunities to get active through the UG Parks & Recreation department.
• Learn about the Area Agency on Aging's Enhanced Fitness exercise program for adults ages 60 and older in Wyandotte County
• Get more ideas for ways to be active on the Move Your Way® website from the U.S. Office of Diseases Prevention and Health Promotion, with tips based on the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

There are many ways people can protect their sexual health and reproductive health. This includes safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancy. It can also include accessing healthcare and other resources to help support good sexual health, like routine check-ups and testing and treatment for health issues.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

Learn about services offered by the Health Department:

According to the CDC, tobacco product use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. There are no safe tobacco products. For youth and adults who do not currently use tobacco, it is best for health to prevent starting tobacco use. For people who already smoke or use other tobacco products, quitting is one of the best things they can do to improve their health and reduce their risk of many chronic diseases. It may take multiple tries to successfully quit tobacco, but helpful treatments and resources are available that can help people quit.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

• KanQuit is a state-wide program offering free support quitting tobacco or vaping. Anyone in Kansas can get services by calling 1 (800) QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or going online to KSquit.org.
• Get involved with the Tobacco Free Wyandotte Coalition, which works on community-wide initiatives to reduce tobacco use and the burden of tobacco-related disease in our county.
• CDC's Smoking Cessation Fast Facts
• Learn more about Youth and Tobacco Use on the CDC website.

There are things we all can do to help reduce and prevent health problems connected to substance use, whether it's for ourselves, our loved ones, or our community as a whole. Support and recovery resources are available for substance use disorders and for anyone who wants to change their substance use patterns. Carrying naloxone (Narcan) helps you be ready in case you encounter someone experiencing an opioid overdose. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can help reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

Health Information from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). MedlinePlus brings together health information from NLM, NIH, and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Other Resources

Learn about our Substance Use programs and resources, including a Peer Support Program and free naloxone (Narcan) available at locations in Wyandotte County.