WAYNESBORO – The Waynesboro Area Fellowship of Churches will host its second annual Waynesboro MLK poster contest to encourage local youth to explore the lasting impact of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders.
Organizers said the contest aims to move beyond familiar excerpts of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech and encourage deeper reflection on justice, equality and leadership.
Contest theme and inspiration
This year’s theme comes from King’s quote, “Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.”
Participants may also highlight other Black history figures, including Rosa Parks, Sojourner Truth and George Washington Carver. Organizers said the contest helps young people understand that Black history is American history and that community leadership remains relevant today.
Who can participate
The Waynesboro MLK poster contest is open to children and youth in the Waynesboro area. Categories include second grade and younger, grades three through six and grades seven through 12.
Students may submit posters as individual or group projects. The deadline for entries is Jan. 11, 2026.
Awards and display
Organizers will announce winners at the Waynesboro Area YMCA on Jan. 18 at 3 p.m. in the community room. Judges will award first-, second- and third-place prizes in each age category, with awards ranging from $25 to $50. Winning posters will be displayed on YMCA bulletin boards throughout February in observance of Black History Month. Photos of last year’s winning entries were provided to the media by Kathy Bostic, outreach and development director of the Waynesboro Area YMCA.
Organizers emphasize historical connection
The Rev. Mark Ruzicka, one of this year’s organizers, said his participation in a self-guided Civil Rights pilgrimage helped deepen his understanding of King’s legacy. He said that standing behind the pulpit at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, demonstrated the power of connecting with historical places.
Organizers said they honor King not only as a civil rights leader but also as a pastor whose faith shaped his work and message.
How to enter
Entry forms and guidelines are available at Morning Star: A Perfect Gift, 28 W. Main St.; at the Waynesboro Area YMCA; and at YMCA Before and After School Program sites.
Forms can also be requested by emailing [email protected]. Completed posters may be dropped off at the Waynesboro Area YMCA or mailed to Church of the Apostles, 336 Barnett Ave., Waynesboro, PA 17268.
