IRON MOUNTAIN – Hope Church of Iron Mountain has announced its first-annual Autumn Writing Contest.

Area students are invited to develop their creativity and writing skills through storytelling.

The contest offers two age divisions: Elementary for kindergarten through fifth grade and middle/high school for sixth through 12th grade.

Submissions may include fiction, poetry or personal narrative centered around the theme “A Season of Change.”

The contest encourages students to explore themes of transformation, gratitude, family, faith and personal growth.

Entries must be submitted digitally through hopeimt.org/write by Friday, Nov. 28.

Word Limits:

— Elementary: Limit of 500 words.

— Middle/high: Limit of 1,000 words.

Each division will feature three winners. Prizes include —

— First place: $35 Walmart gift card and Hope Church prize pack.

— Second place: $20 Walmart gift card.

— Third place: Certificate of excellence.

“At Hope Church, we believe in investing in the next generation – not just spiritually, but creatively, too,” Pastor Anthony Miller said. “This contest gives students a chance to express themselves, build confidence and use their voice in a meaningful way. We cannot wait to see the creativity our local students bring to this challenge.”

Winning entries will be featured on Hope Church’s website and social media platforms, and winners will be celebrated during a Sunday service.

For more information, go to hopeimt.org/write.