DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Communities That Care of Greater Downingtown has named the winners of its annual youth video contest, using student-created content to reinforce substance-use prevention efforts and promote healthy alternatives among middle and high school students.
The contest, now in its sixth year, invited students in grades 7 through 12 who live within the Downingtown Area School District to create videos highlighting hobbies and activities that support mental health and provide alternatives to alcohol, tobacco and drug use.
A team of Downingtown STEM Academy 11th graders — Arya Chouksey, Ashwika Papasani and Tanvi Chigurupati — earned first place for a video demonstrating how painting, baking and exercise contribute to healthy lifestyles.
Second place went to seventh-grader Ayden Koval, who highlighted activities including scootering, drawing, reading and trampolining.
Third place was awarded to Downingtown West High School ninth graders Leo Constantinidis, Keegan Brady and Aodhan Doherty, whose video focused on weightlifting, basketball and cardiovascular exercise as outlets for stress management and healthy decision-making.
The winning students will receive cash prizes, and their videos will be featured on the organization’s website and social media platforms.
The contest is part of a broader prevention strategy aimed at reinforcing positive behaviors among young people. According to Pennsylvania Youth Survey data cited by the organization, 88.8% of Downingtown Area School District students reported not using alcohol during the previous 30 days, while 94.1% reported not using marijuana during that period.
The results spotlight a trend often overlooked in public discussions surrounding youth substance use: the majority of local students report abstaining from alcohol and marijuana.
Communities That Care of Greater Downingtown is a coalition of schools, healthcare providers, businesses, faith organizations, law enforcement agencies, and community groups focused on youth development and prevention initiatives.
The organization said the contest was designed to encourage students to share personal examples of healthy habits that support mental well-being and help them avoid substance use.
The winning videos can be viewed through the organization’s website at www.dtownctc.org.
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