The Better Business Bureau is a non-profit organization that solves business scams by providing solutions through a website and call service for the customer, where certain businesses can get approved by the BBB by going through an approval process to let the customer know that the BBB approves the following business and can be trusted when regulating complaints, issues and preventing scams. They are currently holding the Laws of Life Essay and Visual Art Contests.
The Laws of Life Essay Contest was created in 1987 by Sir John Templeton to encourage young people to reflect on and write about their personal “laws of life”, the core values and principles guiding their lives.
According to Kimberly Ickes, the Senior Director of Administration, BBB Akron, “At the Better Business Bureau of Akron, we began offering the Laws of Life Essay Contest in 2013 because we believe that building trustworthy businesses for tomorrow starts with nurturing strong character in our youth today. This program gives students an opportunity to reflect on their values and strengthen qualities like integrity, responsibility, and ethical leadership; the very traits that define trustworthy citizens and future professionals,” Ickes said.
For the essay contest, it can be used to practice for the ACT, SAT, or used towards a college entrance essay. The contests are known to benefit all high school students in certain areas.
According to Shannon Siegferth, the President & CEO, BBB Akron, “When students explore ethics, they’re building character-and our community benefits too.”
“This year marks the first year of the BBB Visual Arts Contest, which provides students with an opportunity to express their values and creativity through artistic expression,” Ickes stated. “Student’s artwork reminds us of the power of creativity to connect and inspire,” Siegferth added.
To enter either contest, students must complete and submit the appropriate Student Entry Form along with their essay and/or visual arts project. Entry forms and additional contest details are available at bbb.org/local/0272/lol. All entries and signed forms must be emailed by Mar. 13, 2026.
“As long as our students continue to show interest and enthusiasm, BBB Akron will proudly carry on our annual student contests. These programs are an investment in the next generation for helping young people explore integrity, leadership, and ethical decision-making, which are at the heart of everything we stand for,” Siegferth stated.
