Our Program
HTPA Scholarship ContestScholarship Award
Two winners will receive a $1,000.00 scholarship to support their educational goals. Honorable mentions may be featured on our website and social media.
Theme foundation: Whether in friendships, dating, family, or school life, empathy can be a powerful force for good. We want to hear how you see it—how empathy can help prevent unhealthy dynamics, foster healing, or create stronger communities.
who's eligible
Must be either:
- A high school senior graduating in the Class of 2026, or
- A youth aged 16–19 who has earned a GED.
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
1. Completed Application – Available 10/20/2025
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- Project files & artist statement
2. Proof of Eligibility
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- High school (unofficial) transcript showing expected graduation in 2026 or
- Copy of GED certificate
3. Media Release Form
Requirements
Project: (Pick one)
Creative Media Project:
Create a short video, podcast episode, or digital story (2–5 minutes) that explores how empathy can prevent or heal unhealthy relationships. Your submission can be personal, educational, creative, or narrative in style—just make sure it clearly communicates your message and engages the viewer or listener.
Peer Education Toolkit:
Design a resource (e.g., poster series, social media campaign, or classroom activity) that teaches peers about empathy and relationship health.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:
This step must be submitted along with your application/project. Each participant is required to submit a brief artist’s statement that meets the following criteria:
- Minimum length: 250 words
- Format: Typed, double-spaced
- Font: Arial, 12 pt
- Margins: 1-inch on all sides
The artist’s statement should explain the intent, inspiration, and message behind your work.
See Guidance Below
How to Get Started
Call For Inquiry
Mail For Inquiry
Step 01.
Decide which project you will be submitting.
Step 02.
Complete your project and artist statement. Use the guidance provided below.
Step 03.
Return back here to submit your application and project.
Project due date: March 1, 2026.
Applications will be accepted starting Monday, October 20, 2025.
Creative Media Guidance
Video Format
- Length: 2 to 5 minutes
- Format: MP4 or MOV
- Orientation: Landscape preferred
- Audio: Clear and audible; background music optional but not distracting
- Visuals: May include live action, animation, slides, or a mix
Podcast Format
- Length: 2 to 5 minutes
- Format: MP3 or WAV
- Style: Solo, interview, or scripted narrative
- Audio Quality: Clear voice, minimal background noise
- Intro/Outro: Optional but encouraged
Digital Story Format
- Length: 2 to 5 minutes
- Format: MP4 (video), MP3 (audio), or PDF (if visual story with narration)
- Content: Can include images, voiceover, music, and text
- Narrative: Should tell a story or convey a message clearly and creatively
Judging Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
- Relevance to Theme – How well does the submission explore empathy and its role in relationships?
- Creativity & Originality – Is the approach unique, engaging, and thoughtful?
- Clarity of Message – Is the message easy to understand and impactful?
- Technical Quality – Is the audio/visual quality clear and professional?
- Emotional Impact – Does the submission inspire, educate, or move the audience?
Peer Education Toolkit Guidance
Peer Toolkit Criteria
The Peer Toolkit should be designed to educate, empower, and engage other youth on the topic of empathy and healthy relationships. Submissions should meet the following criteria:
Content Criteria
- Relevance to Theme
- Clearly explores how empathy can prevent or heal unhealthy relationships.
- Includes relatable examples, stories, or scenarios that resonate with youth.
- Educational Value
- Provides useful insights, tips, or strategies for building empathy.
- Encourages reflection and positive behavior change among peers.
- Youth Voice & Perspective
- Authentically reflects the student’s voice, experiences, or observations.
- Speaks directly to a youth audience in a respectful and engaging way.
- Actionable Takeaways
- Offers practical advice or tools peers can use in their own relationships.
- May include conversation starters, empathy-building exercises, or reflection questions.
Creative & Technical Criteria
- Clarity & Structure
- Organized and easy to follow.
- Has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Creativity & Engagement
- Uses storytelling, visuals, music, or dialogue to capture attention.
- Demonstrates originality and thoughtful presentation.
- Quality of Production
- Audio is clear and free of distracting noise.
- Visuals (if applicable) are well-lit and easy to see.
- Editing enhances the message without overwhelming it.
Toolkit Usability
- Peer-Friendly Format
- Designed to be shared in classrooms, clubs, or online platforms.
- Appropriate for middle and high school audiences.
- Supplemental Materials (Optional)
- May include a short guide, discussion questions, or activity ideas.
- Can be submitted as a PDF or slide deck if applicable.
Step .03
Submit your Project
opens 10/20/25
Submit your project
# of Winners
Deadline
Award
Get In Touch
Telephone: 775.393.9003
Email: info@ht-prevention.org