The Project Alliance Coalition is kicking off the second annual art contest for area teens to shine a light on the many ways that youth are finding motivation, strength and hope during challenging times.

The contest theme is The ART of Resilience — What Makes You Feel Valued and Loved? The contest is open to students in sixth through 12th grade, who live in the Project Alliance service area that includes Arundel, Biddeford, Buxton, Dayton, Hollis, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Old Orchard Beach and Saco.

What is resiliency and why is it important? Resilience is the ability to ‘bounce back’ during and after times of hardship, trauma and adversity. It is the ability to adapt to difficult situations, find the positives, and find the strength needed to overcome challenges. When resilience skills are lacking, stress and social isolation can make it harder manage negative emotions, which can lead unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol and drug use.

Art can connect people with a message of hope. Connectedness is one way to grow resiliency. The coalition wants to shine a light on the ways in which teens feel valued and loved in their life. Let art encourage the community to grow resilience in challenging times.

All entries are due by Feb. 27. Submissions will be displayed at the Engine Art Studio in Biddeford and judged by the community through a ballot box outside of the studio, as well as online. Prizes will be given for the top three winners in each category: Grades 6-8 and 9-12. First place: Samsung Galaxy Tablet A7 Lite 8.7″ 32GB with Wi-Fi; second place: JBL – JR POP Portable Bluetooth Speaker; and third place: Logitech H600 FR wireless headset.

The Project Alliance Coalition works to increase collaborative efforts and reduce risks related to alcohol, marijuana and prescription drug use for youth and community members in northern York County. Submissions will be used for public service announcements, social media and general advertising through the coalition. Winners will be announced at Engine on Thursday, March 10, at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.chccme.org or email Tricia Cote at TCote3@une.edu.