College enrollment is at an all-time high in the U.S., and students are in stiff competition to get into the college or university of their choice.

In today's selection process, many colleges are looking beyond the basic considerations of grades and SAT or ACT scores, and into the civic involvement and volunteerism of their applicants. Colleges are looking at the overall contribution a student can make to their institution, and you can make your application stand out above the rest with this citizenship award.

The Citizenship Award is a scholarship competition designed to select the student who exemplifies community service and volunteerism at its best. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship, a $1,000 grant to distribute to the civic organization of their choice and an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to learn more about leadership and civic involvement on the Washington Youth Tour.

Don't miss the deadline. See your high school counselor for an application or download the application and apply today for the Youth Citizenship Award. Your application and letter of recommendation are due at the Jackson EMC Corporate Office in Jefferson no later than 4 p.m., Friday, January 30. For more information or questions, please contact Hela Sheth at 706-367-6122.