Students are asked to submit a short essay in response to the contest’s prompt: Who do you consider a hero? 

A hero is a person who demonstrates bravery, compassion, and dedication to helping others, even when faced with challenges. In your essay, write about someone you believe is a hero and explain the qualities that make them heroic. This person could be someone you know personally, a member of your community, or an individual who inspires you.

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A special thank you to the Hammonton Gazette for their partnership and support.  

 

Contest Purpose

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The events of September 11, 2001, marked a tragic day in our nation's history, bringing tremendous loss while also revealing remarkable acts of courage, unity, and selflessness. First responders, everyday citizens, and entire communities came together to support and care for one another during a time of crisis. Although countless individuals demonstrated extraordinary bravery on that day, acts of heroism continue to be found all around us.

 

As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, Hammonton Independent Volunteer Fire Co. 2 invites students to participate in a community-wide essay contest celebrating the courage, compassion, and service shown not only on that historic day, but also by the heroes who positively impact our community every day.

 

This contest encourages students to reflect on what it means to be a hero and to recognize those who make a difference through their dedication to helping others, whether during extraordinary circumstances or through simple acts of kindness in everyday life.

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Who Can Enter & Submission Guidelines  
 

Open to students who are in or entering grades 3-12 in Hammonton and the surrounding communities.

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• Must be the student’s original, unpublished work

• Must not exceed one page (3-5, & 6-8) two pages (9-12)

• Must include the student’s first name, grade level, and school

• Must be submitted by the deadline, August 12, 2026

• Online entries must be submitted as a PDF file

• For students under 18, parent/guardian consent is required

 

How to Submit Your Essay 

 

Submit essays using the form below. Essays may also be submitted in person at the Hammonton Gazette located at 309 Bellevue Ave, Hammonton, NJ 08037.

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All entries must be received by August 12, 2026. Essays submitted after the deadline will not be considered. 

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Review process

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All entries submitted to the contest will be evaluated by a panel of at least 3 judges. The essays shall be judged using a rubric based on the following criteria:
 

• Relevance to theme

• Organization and structure

• Impact

• Inclusion of supporting examples/details

• Originality

• Grammar and spelling

 

Recognition  

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Prizes will be awarded by age groups: Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-12.

Prizes include personalized awards and gift cards from local businesses. Selected essays will be featured on the various websites, social media, and published in the Hammonton Gazette. Authors of selected essays will be announced to the public in early September. 

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Questions? 

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If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Lt. Joe Lizza at HammontonFire2@gmail.com.