Children in grades 1-5 could win $100 to put their good ideas to work in a competition on volunteering sponsored by a local charitable group. 

The Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills (JLOSH) wants to hear from youngsters living in Maplewood, Millburn, Short Hills, Springfield, Livingston and the Oranges about what they would do to help their community if they won the $100 prize. Ideas can include a projects, a donation or anything that helps others in the community. 

Winning entries in previous years of the contest have included a project to  brighten up a South Orange Group home by planting flowers and the creation of a mobile library for residents of an elderly care facility. 

The contest is part of a larger program organized by JLOSH that introduces elementary school age children to the concept of volunteerism through readings of the award-winning book, The Littlest Volunteers, written by League member Danielle Speckhart and published by JLOSH, with a CD read by actress/singer Raven-Symone.   

JLOSH President Kate Lee says, “Studies show that exposure to volunteering at an early age can teach important life skills, improve confidence, promote healthy lifestyle choices and can lead to a life-long commitment to volunteering.  Through our Littlest Volunteers Program, we are teaching the values and rewards of volunteering in a fun way that children can understand and enjoy.” 

To take part in the contest, download the entry form from jlosh.org and mail the completed entry marked 'ATTN TLV Contest' to JLOSH, 105 Main Street, Millburn, NJ 07041. Closing date for entries is February 15.  

The Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills, Inc. is an organization of women developed as civic and community leaders creating lasting community impact.  JLOSH provides service to East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Milburn, Orange, Short Hills, South Orange, Springfield and West Orange, and reaches out to women of all races, religions and national origins.  Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.  To learn more about JLOSH, visit www.jlosh.org or find it on Facebook.