the people next door
Student Art, Video, and Creative Writing Contest
When we fail to learn from history, we risk repeating it.
This contest is an opportunity for students to hear the stories of South Bend’s own Holocaust survivors, then creatively respond to their experiences in an original work of art or creative writing.
UPDATE: 2023 Dates REVISED
Please note that several contest dates have changed:
Submission period opens: February 17, 2023
Submissions due: Friday, March 17, 2023 Extended to Friday, March 24
Awards Reception and Exhibition Opening: Thursday, April 27, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Mishawaka Public Library
In-person exhibition: Mishawaka Public Library, May 1-8 during library hours.
2023 will see some exciting growth to our contest, including a new video category and a return to an in-person exhibition. Read more...
UPDATES TO 2023 Contest Packet
The 2023 Contest Packet has been revised as of February 16, 2023. The contest packet is your source for contest rules, guidelines for each category, and updates on what's new for this year's contest.
Read more...
View the Packet (PDF)
In the news
WNIT PBS Michiana features the People Next Door
Thanks to WNIT's Education Counts Michiana for this segment on the 2022 The People Next Door contest
2022 Prize winners
Congratulations to these students who have received award recognition from our 2022 contest judges.
Virtual Exhibition
To view or read the creative works of every student who participated in the 2022 contest, visit our Exhibition page.
Category Guidelines
The people next Door
These are the stories of South Bend's own holocaust survivors. Watch their stories, or see additional resources on the history of the holocaust to inspire your creative response. Watch now.
2023 TPND Poster.pdfPromotional Materials
2023 Poster - New Date (PDF)
2023 Flyer - New Date (PDF)
2023 Contest Packet.pdfContest Packet
2023 Contest Information Packet - Revised Feb. 16, 2023 (PDF)