2026 Sumter County Walk for Water Arts Challenge

Using Art to Inspire Civic Engagement

As part of the Walk for Water, youth are invited to participate in a special Arts Challenge that uses creativity to raise awareness about local water conservation and global access to clean water.

Participants will receive a blank yard sign to transform into a visual message about why water matters, to their community and to communities around the world. These youth-created signs will be displayed along the 1.5-mile Walk for Water route, giving walkers an opportunity to reflect on water stewardship through the voices of young leaders.

Artwork should explore one or more of the following:

• Protecting and conserving local water resources
• The importance of clean, safe water for all
• How everyday actions connect to global water challenges
• Youth leadership and civic responsibility around water

This challenge encourages youth to use art as a form of advocacy, helping educate and inspire others while supporting the mission of the Walk for Water.

• Each participant will receive a 18” x 24” yard sign to create their artwork.
• Artwork will be created directly on the yard sign using paint, paint markers, or permanent markers.
• Completed signs will be returned by the deadline and displayed along the Walk for Water path.
• After the event, youth may pick up their artwork to take home or reuse.

• Open to youth ages 9–18
• No prior art experience required
• Individual participation

• How art can be used to communicate ideas and promote civic engagement
• The connection between local water conservation and global water access
• Creative confidence, leadership, and community awareness

Participants will also submit a short written statement explaining the message behind their artwork and how it connects to water conservation and the Walk for Water.

All artwork will be publicly displayed during the Walk for Water. Participants will receive a certificate of participation, with special recognition given to pieces that clearly communicate creativity, community impact, and advocacy.

Yard signs will be provided. Participants are encouraged to use acrylic paint, paint markers, or permanent markers. All artwork will be sealed for outdoor display.

Walk. Create. Advocate.
This Youth Yard Sign Art Challenge gives young people a meaningful way to use creativity to support water conservation and raise awareness—one step at a time.

Contact your local 4-H agent to learn more or if you are interested in participating.

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Refund statement: Full payment is due upon registration. No refunds will be issued within three weeks of the start of the event.

Current 4-H membership is not required for participation in this event, but you must preregister.

Custodial Care: Please note that this event and its coordinators do not assume custodial care of youth in attendance. Adults (parents, guardians, volunteers, coaches, or chaperones) must be present for the supervision of youth participants.

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Host or Publisher Sumter County 4-H