Story Award Rules & Terms
Purpose of the Story Award
The Grand Strand Story Award is a monthly community recognition program created to encourage the sharing and preservation of real memories connected to life along the Grand Strand.
Each month, one submitted story may be selected to receive a $150 Story Award as a thank-you for contributing to the shared memory of our coastal community.
Eligibility
To be eligible for consideration:
• Stories must be true personal memories or shared with permission
• Submissions must be family-friendly and respectful
• Participants must provide a valid first name and email address
• There is no purchase necessary to submit a story
Submissions may come from residents, visitors, or anyone with a meaningful connection to the Grand Strand.
How Stories Are Reviewed
Stories are reviewed by the Grand Strand Story Network editorial team.
Selections are based on:
• Emotional impact
• Sense of place
• Authentic voice
• Contribution to community memory
This is not a random drawing and not a popularity contest.
Monthly Participation Requirement
To ensure the Story Award reflects active community involvement:
At least 8 qualified story submissions must be received in a given month for an award to be issued.
If fewer than 8 qualified submissions are received, entries will roll forward and be considered during the next award period.
Story Award Details
• One Story Award of $150 may be issued per month
• Awards may be delivered as a check or local business gift certificate
• The selected storyteller will be contacted via the email provided
• If a selected recipient does not respond within 14 days, an alternate story may be chosen
Publishing & Editing
By submitting a story, you confirm that:
• The story is your original memory or shared with permission
• You grant the Grand Strand Story Network a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to review, edit for clarity or length, and publish the story in connection with its storytelling mission
Stories may be lightly edited for grammar, clarity, or length while preserving the original meaning and voice.
Submission does not guarantee publication.
Program Sustainability
The Story Award program is supported by the Grand Strand Story Network as part of its mission to preserve and celebrate local memories.
The program may be modified, paused, or discontinued at any time based on participation levels, available funding, or evolving community needs.
Program Review
The Story Award program will be reviewed after its first three months to ensure it is effectively serving the community and supporting ongoing storytelling.
Responsibility for Content
Responsibility for the accuracy and content of each story remains with the person submitting it.
The Grand Strand Story Network is not responsible for verifying the historical accuracy of personal memories shared.
Contact
Questions about the Story Award program may be directed to: stories@grandstrandstory.com
Take me back to Share My Story → I want that $150 Gift Card.
