MINT HILL, N.C. (WBTV) - Charlotte area children are competing in the Toddler of the Year contest.

Grace , 2, is in second place in her group, as of this article’s writing.

She’s from Mint Hill and described as having a contagious smile, playful spirit, and love for life.

This national competition raises money for Toys for Tots, helping to provide Christmas toys to families in need.

There’s a $25,000 reward. Grace’s mother says if they win, money raised would be donated to Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, Meck Pre-K and Hickory Grove Early Education Center, all schools that her children attend, and she believes can put the money to good use.

Also competing locally is Orion , a 3-year-old boy from Fort Mill. He’s in fourth place in his group, as of this article’s writing.

According t

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