A creative writing event that bridges generations, honors voices, and celebrates family.
Do you know a child who loves to imagine, write, or draw? This spring, the Pages & Petals Young Writers Adventure invites kids from across the Yakima Valley to share their creativity in a special storytelling experience — with the chance to be celebrated at a beloved Mother’s Day event!
Hosted by Peach Tree Retirement Center and Testify Swag Official, this intergenerational writing celebration is more than just a contest. It’s a meaningful opportunity for kids to express themselves, connect with local seniors, and be part of a joyful community gathering.
🌼 What Is the Young Writers Adventure?
The Pages & Petals Young Writers Adventure is a creative letter-writing project for kids in Kindergarten through 9th grade. This year’s theme, “Then vs. Now,” encourages children to explore how life has changed across generations.
Participants will write (and illustrate, if they wish) short stories, reflections, or letters that compare daily life today with the way things used to be — from phones and fashion to meals and music.
All entries must be handwritten by the child, with a typed backup copy included for clarity.
📝 Spanish and bilingual submissions are welcome.
🧡 Who Can Participate?
- Students in grades K–9
- Homeschool, public, private, and faith-based students
- Families from Ellensburg to Sunnyside and surrounding areas
- Vendor families are also encouraged to participate
This event is inclusive, family-centered, and rooted in community storytelling.
🕑 Ceremony & Recognition
Finalists will be honored during the Pages & Petals Mother’s Day Bazaar at Peach Tree Retirement Center on Saturday, May 10, 2026.
At 2:00 PM, selected entries will be publicly recognized during a celebratory ceremony — attended by families, seniors, vendors, and community partners. Each child who participates receives:
- A Pages & Petals goodie bag
- A free Mother’s Day gift to give to a loved one
- Public recognition if selected as a finalist
- Encouragement and joy, no matter the outcome
There is no perfect story — only authentic ones.
Finalists are chosen with care by Peach Tree residents and community judges.
✉️ How to Enter
To participate, a parent or guardian must:
- Register online at PeachTreeRetirement.com
- Submit the handwritten entry in an addressed envelope (mail-in or drop-off)
- Include a typed backup copy
- Clearly write contact info on the back of all pages:
- Child’s first name and age
- Adult’s email and phone number
- “Vendor” tag if applicable
⚠️ Only entries with matching online registration will be accepted.
💌 Why It Matters
In a world full of digital distractions, this project encourages real-life skills:
- Handwriting a letter
- Creative expression
- Sharing stories with elders
- Learning how mail works
And most importantly — it builds confidence, connection, and celebration.
“Our goal is to lift up young voices, honor family ties, and bring generations together through storytelling,” says Barbara Ziegler, event co-host.
“Every child who enters is valued. Every story matters.”
📍 Save the Date!
🗓 Young Writers Celebration
📍 Pages & Petals Mother’s Day Bazaar
📅 Saturday, May 10, 2026
🕑 2:00 PM Ceremony
🏠 Peach Tree Retirement Center
2800 W Viola Ave, Yakima, WA 98908
✨ Let’s Uplift the Next Generation
If you know a child who loves to write — or simply has something to say — we invite you to share this opportunity with them. The Pages & Petals Young Writers Adventure is a beautiful reminder that every voice has value and every child deserves to be celebrated.
👉 Register Now at PeachTreeRetirement.com
Spots are limited, and entries must be received by the deadline to be considered.