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The Wyoming County Economic Development Authority (EDA), in collaboration with the Wyoming County Planning Commission, proudly announces the 2025 Wyoming County Writing Contest. This annual competition, funded through the Wyoming County Literature Fund established by Lonnie Bailey, aims to inspire and celebrate the craft of writing while preserving the county’s rich historical and cultural heritage. The contest invites writers from all backgrounds—students in grades 1-12 and adults 18 and older—to showcase their creativity and storytelling abilities.
The contest features categories for elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as adults, with prizes ranging from $50 to $500. Entrants can submit essays, poetry, or other original works, with topics varying by category. Elementary students, for instance, may write on prompts like their favorite activities in Wyoming County or notable local figures. All entries are judged on merit by a panel of Wyoming County residents, and every participant will receive a certificate of recognition. Read previous Writing Contest entries here.Â
The Wyoming County Literature Fund, created by acclaimed local author Lonnie Bailey, has supported this contest for four years. Bailey, who has authored 22 books and earned international recognition for his poetry and prose, established the fund through the Beckley Area Foundation (BAF). BAF, one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations, has been instrumental in funding educational, cultural, and community initiatives since its inception in 1985.
Entries must be submitted to the Wyoming County Planning Commission between January 15, 2025, and May 1, 2025. Participants are encouraged to submit original, unpublished work in adherence to the contest’s formatting and eligibility requirements. Submissions can be mailed to the Planning Commission or emailed with “Wyoming County Writing Contest” in the subject line.
Winners will be announced in early summer 2025 in collaboration with the Wyoming County Board of Education. The Wyoming County EDA and Planning Commission encourages all aspiring writers to seize this opportunity to share their stories, honor their heritage, and contribute to the county’s vibrant literary tradition.
