OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services Aging Services Division and AARP Oklahoma seek entries for a statewide art contest for children being raised by grandparents or other relatives. The competition, sponsored by the OKDHS Aging Services Division and AARP Oklahoma, is part of Oklahoma’s annual celebration of Grandparents’ Week in Oklahoma.

Each September OKDHS takes this opportunity to honor the special contributions of those grandparents who are raising their grandchildren by sponsoring a statewide conference focusing on the needs of these families.

Through a special competition called “My Family Portrait … an ever changing picture,” children are invited to use an artistic medium to depict what makes their family special, said Claire Dowers, OKDHS Aging Services Division, who is coordinating the competition.

“Grandparents are asked to write a short narrative to accompany the art in any effort to give the grandparents the opportunity to share with others experiences and needs arising out of this experience,” Dowers said.

AARP Oklahoma will award savings bonds in several categories based on the children’s ages: seven and under, eight to 10, 11 to 13 and 14-18.

Completed artwork and narratives must be submitted by Aug. 21, 2005. Entries should be sent to OKDHS Aging Services, attention Claire Dowers, 2401 NW 23, Suite 40, Oklahoma City, OK 73107.

Entries must include the name and phone number of the grandparents as well as the first name and age of the child. Confidentially will be maintained.

For more information, contact Dowers at (405) 522-3074 or Claire.Dowers@OKDHS.org.

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