ATLANTA — In an effort to raise awareness across the nation about saving for college, September has been declared National College-Savings Month.

Georgia is joining states across the country this month to encourage families to prepare financially for higher education expenses. In conjunction with the special month, the Path2College 529 Plan once again is holding a statewide coloring sweepstakes.

Georgia children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade can color Hootie the Wise Old Owl and complete the sentence, “When I graduate, I’m going to be a ____,” for a chance to win $1,529 for his or her college savings.

In addition, the winner’s school will receive $1,000.

Coloring sheets and official rules can be found at www.Path2College529.com. Entries must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian, post-marked by Sept. 30 and received by Oct. 5. One winner will be drawn at random in mid-October. No purchase is necessary.

To learn more about Georgia’s Path2College 529 Plan or to open a Path2College 529 Plan account, visit www.Path2College529.com.