Riverside County partnered with Inland Empire nonprofit, Reach Out, to launch two new programs to help slow the spread of coronavirus through art.
“We know our communities want to help stop coronavirus and get through this pandemic stronger,” said Diana Fox, CEO of Reach Out. “Through creating and sharing art, these programs will help residents do just that by playing a meaningful role to slow the spread.”
The first program is a social media challenge in which budding influencers submit a 30-second video focused on one or more of the three simple steps to slow the spread: wear a mask, keep six feet of distance and wash hands frequently.
The other program, known as the health ambassador program, is a creative arts entry contest in which would-be artists are asked to submit some form of artwork, such as a photograph, music, poetry, sculpture, painting, or drawing. Potential artwork themes include “Reasons I wear a mask” and “What I miss most during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The top winner each week will receive a $50 gift card, sponsored by donors to Reach Out and not paid for by CARES Act funding. Twelve grand prize winners will each receive a $100 gift card, donated by Reach
Out and local businesses.
Submissions must fit with the three simple steps and encourage slowing the spread of coronavirus. Multiple entries by the same person may be submitted in either category. All entries must be the entrant’s own work. All entries must include a consent and release form. Youth under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian permission to participate. The entry deadline for both programs is October 9.
Entries for both programs will be reviewed by a panel of community judges. Winning entries will be highlighted on social media and recognized by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, along with placement in a public location for display.
“The social media challenge and health ambassador program promote good health and community spirit,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “These programs can help peers stay motivated to follow public health messages to protect themselves and their families. I am inspired that, in challenging times, our residents always come through and serve our communities.”
For more information or to enter the programs, visit www.masksaremedicine.org.
