Poughkeepsie… The Dutchess County Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with Dutchess BOCES and The Art Effect, invites local students to creatively make a difference through an anti-vaping art contest, “Escape the Vape,” designed to raise awareness about the risks of vaping while amplifying youth voices. Students are invited to submit a short video or original visual art piece, with submissions accepted now through April 3rd through the online portal at dutchessny.gov/antivape.
DOH Commissioner Dr. Livia Santiago-Rosado said, “Vaping poses real risks to the health and development of our young people. This contest gives students the opportunity to use their creativity to educate their peers, start meaningful conversations, and help shape a healthier future for teens across Dutchess County.”
The contest is open to middle- and high-school-aged students who live in Dutchess County. Submissions will be judged in a 14-18 age category. Each student may submit one original piece of artwork.
Students are asked to submit artwork that encourages teens to avoid vaping or quit using vape products, while highlighting Dutchess County by featuring local locations or communities. Accepted formats include:
Artwork may not be generated using artificial intelligence (AI). If selected, students will collaborate with a local media group to produce a professional version of their video or advertisement.
Submissions will be evaluated based on creativity and originality, strength of message, visual impact, and connection to teen audiences. Winning artwork will be used in a media campaign seen across social media platforms, in community spaces, and as television advertisements seen throughout Dutchess County. The first-place winner will earn a paid internship with The Art Effect to create a professional, polished version of their video or advertisement.
County funding for the contest is provided through New York State’s multistate settlement with JUUL Labs Inc., to combat youth vaping. Settlement funds were awarded to the Dutchess County DOH and Dutchess BOCES to support education and prevention efforts aimed at reducing underage use of electronic nicotine products in Dutchess County.
To learn more about the “Escape the Vape” art contest visit: dutchessny.gov/antivape.
