Kai Johnson, a 6th grade student at Old Hammondtown School has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning a local competition sponsored by the Mattapoisett Lions Club.
Kai’s poster is among more than 450,000 entries submitted worldwide in the annual Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.
The poster was selected by Lions Club members Helene Rose, Club President Lynne Foley and school staff members for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme, “Dare to Dream.” President Lynne Foley said she was impressed by the expression and creativity of the students at Old Hammondtown School. “It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what compassion means to them. I’m so proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions.”
Kai’s poster will advance through the district, multiple district and international levels of competition if he is to be declared the international grand prize winner.” Foley said.
One international grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of $5,000, plus a trip for the winner and two family members to a special award ceremony. The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a cash award of $500.
“Our club is cheering for Kai as his poster advances in the competition, and we hope that his vision will ultimately be shared with others around the world,” Foley said.
Locally, Kai and numerous other students were honored for their participation by the Mattapoisett Lions Club on November 22 at Old Hammondtown School. Kai was awarded a $100 gift card. Second place recipient Amelia Sawicki was awarded a $50 gift card and third place recipient Dominic Philie received a $25 gift card. Honorable Mention was awarded to Hannah Gomes who received a $15 gift card.
Members of the Mattapoisett Lions Club wish to thank Principal Mr. Kevin Tavares, the wonderful educators at Old Hammondtown School and parents for their continued support of the Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest Project.
Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.4 million members in 210 countries and geographical areas around the world. Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strong commitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world.
Follow Mattapoisett Lions Club on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/MattapoisettLionsClub.