
Letters of Gratitude
Write a heartfelt letter to someone who has impacted your life and celebrate the art of gratitude as the season of reflection approaches.
Prizes
- Grand Prize:
- $500
- Second Place:
- $200
- 15 Runners-up:
- $15
Status
CompletedTimeline
Submissions opened
Nov 08, 2024
Submissions closed
Nov 21, 2024 4:59 AM CUT
Results
Dec 04, 2024
Prizes
- Grand Prize:
- $500
- Second Place:
- $200
- 15 Runners-up:
- $15
Status
CompletedTimeline
Submissions opened
Nov 08, 2024
Submissions closed
Nov 21, 2024 4:59 AM CUT
Results
Dec 04, 2024
About this challenge
The Prompt
Write a heartfelt letter to someone who has impacted your life and celebrate the art of gratitude as the season of reflection approaches.
The Humans community cherishes the stories that bridge hearts and generations. For this challenge, take the time to pause and reflect on the people who have shaped your journey. Whether it’s the mentor who ignited your curiosity, the friend who stood by you in tough times, or even a fleeting encounter that resonated deeply, let your letter breathe life into gratitude. Your letter should not only honor them but weave a narrative that inspires others to consider their own unsung heroes and express their thanks. Share your story to spread the spirit of gratitude and encourage others to join.
In order for your submission to qualify, it must be:
- A letter, 600 to 1,000 words in length.
- Submitted to the Humans community. Your story will be disqualified if it is submitted to any other community.
- Submitted before November 20, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST
The Prizes
- Grand Prize: $500
- Second Place: $200
- 15 Runners-Up: $25 each
How to enter
For your story to be eligible, it must be 600 to 1,000 words and adhere to our Community Guidelines. Stories published on Vocal and entered into the contest up until November 20, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST will be entered for consideration. Official Rules for the Challenge can be found here.
The Letters of Gratitude Challenge is exclusive to Vocal+ members. To learn more and upgrade to Vocal+, visit https://vocal.media/vocal-plus.
To be eligible to win the grand prize, second place, or runners-up prizes, you must be over the age of 13 and reside in a country where Stripe is available at the time of entry. A complete list of countries where Stripe is available can be found here—winners will need a Stripe account created and connected to receive prizes. Entrants located outside of these countries will not be eligible to win.
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