CHICAGO (June 8, 2006) – Seventy-seven of the 100 finalist in the “Do The Write Thing” antiviolence essay contest, who were recognized recently in ceremonies at the Harold Washington Library, were students from Chicago’s Catholic schools. Seven of the top 10 finalists, who will participate in a four-year high school tutoring, mentoring and college readiness program, were also from Catholic schools. One of the seven, Matt McKeon from Bridgeport Catholic Academy, is one of two top finalists selected as a national finalist.

“Do the Write Thing” identifies and rewards promising inner city Chicago youth who have faced violence and adversity in their lives. In addition to the recognition given to the 100 finalists of the writing contest, the top 10 finalists are awarded entry into the “Do the Write Thing” Bridge to College Scholarship Program. This new program was created in an alliance with The Associated Colleges of Illinois, a partnership of 27 member colleges and universities supported by businesses, foundations and individuals.

The organization hopes to provide college scholarship aid to those top 10 annual finalists of the “Do the Write Thing” contest who satisfy the scholarship eligibility requirements of the program.

Originally created by the Kuwait-America Foundation in after the Gulf War, the “Do the Write Thing” Program is an initiative sponsored by the National Campaign to Stop Violence. Since 1994, the program has expanded to 23 major cities across the U.S. In Chicago the contest and awards dinner is sponsored annually by the Chicago law firm of Piper & Rudnick. This is the ninth year for the antiviolence essay contest in Chicago.

Seventy-Seven Finalists List By School >>
Top Seven Finalists in Bridge To College Scholarship Program >>