Sioux Falls, S.D. — April 23, 2025 — Emily’s Hope is proud to announce its first Youth Art Competition, an event designed to engage students in conversations about resilience, mental health, and substance use prevention through the power of art. The competition will take place on Thursday, April 24, from 6–8 p.m. on the 3rd floor of the Washington Pavilion, with an awards ceremony scheduled for 7 p.m.
This event is a key initiative of the Emily’s Hope Youth Prevention Coalition, supported through the organization’s Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. Students from middle and high schools across Sioux Falls were invited to submit original artwork exploring the theme of a drug- and alcohol-free, healthy lifestyle.
The evening’s program will feature a short address from guest speaker Christian Olson, a local artist in recovery, who will share his personal journey and how art has played a transformative role in his life.
“We believe art can spark meaningful dialogue,” said Angela Kennecke, CEO and Founder of Emily’s Hope. “This competition gives young people a creative space to express themselves while also learning about the power of prevention and the importance of making healthy choices.”
The event is generously sponsored by Avera Health, JD’s House of Trophies, and the Washington Pavilion. All student artwork will remain on display throughout the weekend at the Pavilion. Winning pieces will be moved to the Charlotte Carver Gallery at City Hall on Monday, April 28, where they will be exhibited throughout early May for the community to view and celebrate.
This competition is part of Emily’s Hope’s ongoing effort to remove the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and promote prevention strategies through education and youth engagement. The Youth Prevention Coalition brings together schools, healthcare providers, families, and community organizations to empower young people with knowledge and support for a substance free life.
Media outlets are encouraged to attend, with interviews available upon request. For more information, visit https://emilyshope.charity or contact Kayli Fitz at kayli@emilyshope.charity.
About Emily’s Hope
Emily’s Hope is a non-profit organization dedicated to removing the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention; and eliminating financial barriers for treatment and recovery. Founded by Angela Kennecke in memory of her daughter Emily, Emily’s Hope has helped nearly 250 people enter recovery, launched the Emily’s Hope Substance Use Prevention Curriculum for students K-5, and is developing a companion curriculum for grades 6-12.
This webpage is supported by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award funded by ONDCP. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ONDCP, CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.