Clearview fifth grader Jessica Olson received a surprise visit in her classroom from representatives of LIVE UNITED last Friday, when they arrived to inform her she was one of their 15 essay contest winners.

 

United Way of Central Minnesota, U.S. Bank and Times Media teamed up to create the LIVE UNITED essay contest to give youth a chance to tell the community how they “live united” and have a positive impact on others.

 

To enter the contest, fifth graders across Central Minnesota wrote an essay detailing how they’re making a difference in their community, such as shoveling snow for a neighbor, helping a classmate with homework, volunteering at a local organization, or any other way they’re helping others. 

 

Olson and her classmates wrote their essays as a project in Mrs. Palmquist’s class. 

 

“It was a surprise,” said Olson of winning the contest. “They came into the classroom and said if your name doesn’t start with a “J” sit down. There were only two of us left.”

 

“I was nervous. Once they called my name I was like, oh my gosh! It was exciting for me.”

 

Olson wrote her essay on how she helps out around her house by doing things such as bringing in groceries from the car and babysitting her little sister, and helps keep the earth clean by picking up trash on the roads, sidewalks and park.