The Franklin County Visitors Bureau announces the launch of the annual “It Is Always the Right Time to Do the Right Thing” Essay Contest, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s timeless message delivered at Oberlin College on October 22, 1964: “The time is always right to do what is right.”

Each year, the contest invites the community to reflect on this call to action and share stories that illuminate the power and impact of choosing to do the right thing.

The Visitors Bureau welcomes submissions that explore what “doing the right thing” means to each writer.

Essays may be personal stories or reflections on the influence of family, friends, ancestors, mentors, or heroes.

Writers may also draw on moments in history that shaped their own values or understanding as long as the central theme reinforces that it is always the right time to do the right thing.

The contest features five categories—Education, Humanity, Respect, Liberty, and Justice—with entry levels for elementary students, younger teens, older teens, and adults.

Submissions are accepted in both written and oral formats.

A $100 top prize will be awarded in each category, judged on clarity of the main point, originality, insightfulness, and overall expression.

Essays may be submitted by email, mail, or in person to the Franklin County Visitors Bureau and must be received by February 23rd.

Winners will be announced in early March.

Entry forms are available here.

The 2025 Essay Contest Booklet is available online, and printed copies may be requested by calling 717.552.2977 or 866.646.8060.

A printed and digital edition of the 2026 booklet will be produced.

For more information about Franklin County and the Franklin County Visitors Bureau, visit www.ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com.