Students in Delaware in grades six through 12 have the chance to Get Up and Do Something and possibly win $1,000 plus co-direct a 30-second video commercial on healthy lifestyles for 12 to 18 year olds.
The Get Up and Do Something video contest is part of a media campaign and educational effort sponsored by the Delaware Division of Public Health. The contest provides an opportunity for youth to get involved in promoting physical activity and healthy eating.
As a direct result of taking on the challenge, Patrick Quinn, a graduate of Wilmington Friends School and previous video contest winner, got a head start on pursuing his career.
Quinn’s winning submission, Couch Busters, a parody of the 1980s hit movie Ghost Busters, not only provided him with the opportunity to co-direct the 30-second spot, it also gave him first-hand work experience which he credits, “Got me into my college of choice so I could study Screen Writing.” Quinn is currently enrolled at Chapman University, a Liberal Arts college located in Southern California.
“Winning the contest was a blast with the added bonus of working with an actual production company.” Quinn said. “To my surprise, the people on the set and the producer actually listened to me and followed my suggestions throughout the production.”
Delaware ranks as the 16th most obese and overweight state in the nation for children, according to Trust for America’s Health. Behavior Survey data shows almost one-third of Delaware high school students are either overweight or obese, and only one in every three students meets recommended levels of daily activity.
The contest encourages students to get involved with the campaign, vote for their favorite videos, promote healthy behaviors, and help address the growing health crisis among youth. In addition to the top prize of $1,000, four $250 runner-up prizes will also be awarded.
The Get Up and Do Something video contest deadline is March 15.
For more information on the video contest rules and entry submissions, visit getupanddosomething.org.
