This Fourth of July, as we celebrate the birth of a nation built on liberty and hope, let us also honor the responsibility that comes with that freedom: to protect our families, our communities, and our future.

In 2020, the United States Postal Service along with the Drug Enforcement Administration issued the Drug Free USA Forever Stamp—a small symbol with a powerful message. Its bold red, white, and blue star reminded Americans that staying drug-free is not just a personal choice—it’s a patriotic one.

The Drug Free USA Forever Stamp (Scott #5542) was issued by USPS on October 27, 2020, during Red Ribbon Week—a nationwide campaign to promote drug prevention museum.dea.gov+11about.usps.com+11about.usps.com+11.

A Nation’s Strength Starts at Home

This Independence Day, let’s carry that message forward:

•  Choose health over harm.
•  Support loved ones with compassion and courage.
• Create safe, supportive spaces for our youth.

By committing to a drug-free life, we preserve the promise of freedom for the next generation. We show that patriotism is more than waving a flag—it’s standing up for what keeps our nation strong.

This Fourth of July, light a firework, raise a flag, and make a pledge:

Sign the Red Ribbon Pledge

To live free. To live strong. To live drug-free.

Like the stamp says - this message lasts forever.

______________________________________________________________________________

This Fourth of July let’s celebrate freedom not only with fireworks, but with actions that strengthen our families, our neighborhoods, and our nation’s future. As we gather under the red, white, and blue, let’s recommit ourselves to three simple pillars of true American spirit: Civic Pride in Action, Family & Community Bonds and Building a Drug-Free Tomorrow.

1. Civic Pride in Action:

• Volunteer Together: Support the Informed Families campaign, visit our resource table at local events and earn community service hours supporting out staff at events. Every hour you give back is an investment in the community that built us all.
• Stay Informed & Engaged: Take a few minutes to learn about Informed Families by joining our four prevention campaigns, sign up to receive our Newsletter, and follow us on social media. Knowledge is the first step to real change.
   
  • Instagram 
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

2. Family & Community Bonds

• Gather & Share Stories: Invite parents, grandparents, friends or local heroes to tell their stories of service and sacrifice. Let children—and grown-ups see how each generation has lifted America forward.
• Host a “Patriot Picnic”: Ask family and friends to bring a dish that represents their heritage. Celebrate the diversity that makes our nation strong, while reinforcing the ties that bind us.

3. Building a Drug-Free Tomorrow

• Make a Family Pledge: On the eve of July 4th, sit together and pledge to support one another in making healthy, drug-free choices. Take a photo and share it on our social media channels.
• Community Resources: Partner with Informed Families to learn about our prevention campaigns and parent support groups. Knowledge saves lives.

As summer begins, I’m reminded of something we say, prevention doesn’t take a break.

When school is out, teens have more time on their hands and fewer structured activities—and while summer can be a time of growth, freedom, and fun, it can also bring increased risks. Research shows that first-time substance use often happens during the summer, simply because kids have more unsupervised time and opportunities.

That’s why this month, I want to encourage all of us—families, schools, and communities—to see summer as a season of prevention. It’s a unique window to stay connected, stay informed, and continue building the habits that keep our children safe, healthy, and drug-free.

Here are a few ways we can all support prevention this summer:

1. Set a Summer Routine

Teens may not say it, but they do better with structure. Establish a daily rhythm that works for your family. You can even align screen time with the hottest part of the day, so they’re staying cool and out of the sun. Routines don’t need to be rigid—they just need to offer consistency.

2. Keep Them Engaged

Keeping teens busy in meaningful ways over the summer can help reduce boredom, limit screen time, and lower the risk of risky behavior. Here are some practical ideas for all types of families:

• Break Down the Summer Reading List
  Help your teen divide their reading into manageable chunks. Create a simple checklist they can mark off daily or weekly so it doesn’t feel overwhelming by August.
• Start a Daily Challenge
  It could be a fitness goal, journaling prompt, or creative activity—something small they do each day to stay consistent and motivated. Get their friends involved.
• Volunteer Together, friends included!
  Many local nonprofits, churches, and animal shelters welcome teen volunteers. It’s a great way to build responsibility and give back.
• Host a Theme Night at Home!
  Pick a night each week for a fun family activity, include their friends—movie night, DIY pizza, game night, or a cultural dinner night where you cook food from a different country.
• Explore Local Resources
  Check your library, community center, or parks department for free or low-cost programs, classes, or events.
• Plan a “Staycation”
  Visit local museums, nature trails, or tourist spots in your area you’ve never explored. Make it a fun photo challenge or scavenger hunt.
• Encourage a Summer Job or Side Hustle
  Babysitting, dog walking, mowing lawns, or even selling handmade crafts online—these teach responsibility and independence.
• Enroll in a Camp or Workshop
  Whether it’s art, tech, music, or sports, specialized camps can fuel their passions while keeping them active and social.
• Plan a Trip or Family Experience
  If it fits your budget, consider a weekend getaway, road trip, or even attending a concert or sporting event together. These moments create lasting memories and opportunities for connection.

3. Stay Involved

Check in often. Ask questions. Know their friends and their plans. Your presence and interest—even if they act like they don’t notice—makes a powerful difference.

4. Keep the Conversation Going

Use everyday moments—like car rides or family meals—to have open, honest conversations. Talking about the risks of drugs and alcohol shouldn’t be a one-time lecture, but an ongoing dialogue. Most importantly, create a space where your child feels safe coming to you with questions. Don’t shy away from the tough topics—give real, age-appropriate answers and let them know they won’t be judged. When kids feel heard and supported, they’re more likely to make healthy choices.

5. Lean on Your Community

Prevention is not something any one person does alone. Connect with other families, encourage your school or faith group to stay active, and support local youth programs whenever you can.

Let’s make this summer a season where prevention is present—not just in our words, but in our actions.

Wishing you a safe, joyful, and connected summer,

Peggy B. Sapp
President

 

Each year, the National Family Partnership proudly recognizes exceptional individuals and programs leading the fight against drug abuse through the Enrique “Kiki” Camarena Red Ribbon Award. This prestigious honor commemorates the life and legacy of Kiki Camarena —a DEA agent who gave his life in service to protecting communities from the harms of drug use.

This year, we are proud to present the 2024 Enrique “Kiki” Camarena Red Ribbon Award to an outstanding leader whose decades-long commitment to prevention continues to shape and inspire.

 James “Jim” Conklin – Middleton, New York
2024 Enrique “Kiki” Camarena Red Ribbon Award Recipient

For over three decades, Jim Conklin has been a pillar of prevention in Orange County and beyond. As Executive Director of the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Council, he’s grown Red Ribbon Week into a county-wide movement involving schools, law enforcement, and local officials. Jim’s unwavering belief that “one person can make a difference” has driven a lifetime of leadership, advocacy, and community empowerment. As he prepares to pass the torch, Jim’s legacy continues to influence the future of prevention across New York State and beyond.

 

Honoring Four Outstanding Nominees

In addition to celebrating Jim Conklin, the National Family Partnership is proud to honor four remarkable individuals whose dedication, innovation, and passion are making lasting impacts in prevention and education.

Kathy Ross – Pedro, Ohio
Community Advocate & Leader

From personal struggle to powerful leadership, Kathy Ross has transformed her journey with addiction into a mission of hope. After overcoming her own opioid addiction and incarceration, she dedicated her life to prevention, recovery, and education in her community. She co-founded a successful drug court, launched impactful initiatives like Prom Promise and For Jenny’s Sake, and now leads a team of over 90 behavioral health professionals. Her efforts have saved lives, empowered youth, and brought vital resources to a region devastated by the opioid crisis.

 

Lt. Michael Reese – Anniston, Alabama
Law Enforcement & Prevention Leader

Lt. Michael Reese co-founded Operation Save Teens, a statewide, multimedia prevention program that has reached more than 200,000 students, parents, and educators across Alabama. Built on a foundation of faith and community engagement, the program combines real-life stories with essential drug education and support. Lt. Reese’s work has helped countless teens seek help, report drug activity, and make safer decisions—proving that prevention and law enforcement can be powerful partners in change.

 

Lupe Salcido – Lovington, New Mexico
Bilingual Educator & Advocate

A passionate bilingual educator, Lupe Salcido has reimagined Red Ribbon Week at her school by integrating substance use awareness into every subject area. Her collaborative approach engages the entire staff and ensures students from all backgrounds receive meaningful, age-appropriate prevention messaging. Outside the classroom, Lupe supports grieving families in her church and community, modeling compassion and commitment in everything she does.

 

Akshar Paduru – Chantilly, Virginia
Youth Leader & Peer Educator

High school junior Akshar Paduru is a rising star in youth-led prevention. Without being asked or assigned, he initiated substance use presentations, partnered with school leadership, and joined the Unified Mental Health Team to elevate student voices. His advocacy around fentanyl awareness and peer support has sparked important conversations and empowered fellow students to take action. Akshar is proof that leadership knows no age.

Celebrating Their Impact

Each of these individuals exemplifies the passion, integrity, and courage that define the spirit of the Kiki Camarena Red Ribbon Award. Whether rooted in recovery, education, enforcement, or youth activism, their efforts have strengthened communities and saved lives.

Let us continue to support, celebrate, and learn from those making a difference—today and every day.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

February 3rd, 2025 – Miami, FL – The National Family Partnership (NFP) is proud to announce the theme for the 2025 Red Ribbon Week: "Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™" This inspiring theme, submitted by Cheryl Holsapfel, Digital Art Teacher, and Carter Weinmann from Solon Middle School, highlights how every choice we make fits into the bigger picture—just like a puzzle coming together. It serves as a reminder that a drug-free lifestyle helps build a stronger, brighter future, one piece at a time.

The annual Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest, sponsored by NFP, draws thousands of submissions from across the country, encouraging participants to create slogans that reflect the campaign’s mission. "Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™" was chosen for its powerful message about making positive choices that contribute to a healthier, drug-free community.

Cheryl Holsapfel, a dedicated Digital Art Teacher at Solon Middle School, shared her excitement about incorporating the contest into her classroom: "I am so proud of Carter’s win! Integrating the Red Ribbon theme contest into our design lessons engages students in real-world applications. They create strong imagery, analyze their audience, and refine themes for clarity and creativity. The contest has become an essential part of our Digital Art curriculum, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our students’ ideas come to life while making a positive impact in the community."

Carter Weinmann, this year’s student winner, expressed his enthusiasm: "I was really surprised and excited to win the Red Ribbon Contest! I took inspiration from past winners and can’t wait to see my theme used across the country."

About the Red Ribbon Campaign

The Red Ribbon Campaign began in 1985 following the tragic murder of DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. NFP launched the initiative to raise awareness about the devastating impact of drug abuse in America. Today, Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s largest and longest-running drug prevention campaign, encouraging communities to take a stand for healthy, drug-free lifestyles.

Peggy B. Sapp, President of NFP, emphasized the significance of the contest: "The Red Ribbon theme contest is one of the many ways NFP engages communities in the fight against drug abuse. Each year, we encourage students and educators to share their perspectives on drug-free living. This year’s theme reminds us that every decision matters and plays a role in shaping a positive future."

Get Involved & Submit Your Theme for 2026

Theme submissions for the 2026 Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest are accepted annually from January 1st to December 4th. Winners receive $500 in Red Ribbon Week-themed merchandise, generously provided by Nimco, Inc., the official supplier of Red Ribbon campaign materials.

Red Ribbon Week is observed nationwide from October 23rd–31st. Join us in making a difference by promoting a drug-free lifestyle.

To learn more about the contest and how to participate, visit www.RedRibbon.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
RedRibbon@NFP.org

"Life is A Movie, Film Drug Free."™

January 31^st, 2024 – Miami, FL– Today, the National Family Partnership (NFP) proudly revealed the theme for the 2024 Red Ribbon Week: "Life is A Movie, Film Drug Free.™" This creative theme was submitted by Cheryl Holsapfel, Digital Art Teacher, and Devansh Aggarwal from Solon Middle School. It serves as a powerful reminder that ordinary Americans nationwide contribute significantly to their communities every day by embracing a drug-free lifestyle.

The annual Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest, sponsored by the National Family Partnership, attracts millions of submissions across the nation, inviting participants to craft slogans that embody the campaign's mission. "Life is A Movie, Film Drug Free.™" was selected because it inspires individuals to play their part in fostering safe, healthy, and drug-free communities. From healthcare professionals to educators, parents, and beyond, the theme underscores the collective impact achievable through dedication and commitment.

Cheryl Holsapfel, the Digital Art Teacher at Solon Middle School, shared her enthusiasm for integrating the Red Ribbon project into her curriculum. "I teach a class called digital art, where we focus on design, visual literacy, and 21st-century skills. Incorporating the Red Ribbon theme contest into our lessons provides students with real-world application and engagement. We analyze our audience, explore various printing applications, and refine slogans to ensure clarity and creativity. It's incredibly rewarding to witness our students' ideas come to life and make a difference in the community," she expressed.

The origin of the Red Ribbon Campaign traces back to 1985, following the tragic murder of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. This initiative, initiated by NFP, symbolizes a commitment to raising awareness about the devastating impact of drugs in America.

Peggy B. Sapp, President of NFP, emphasized the importance of community engagement through initiatives like the theme contest. "The Red Ribbon theme contest is just one of the ways NFP raises awareness in our communities. Each year, we encourage the public to share their perspectives on living drug-free. This year, we invite them to showcase what drug-free living means to them through photography, serving as representatives of our collective commitment to a drug-free lifestyle," she stated.

Theme submissions for the Red Ribbon Week Contest are open annually from January 1st to December 4th. Winners of the contest receive $500 worth of Red Ribbon Week themed merchandise, generously provided by Nimco, Inc. As the sole supplier of Red Ribbon Merchandise Theme materials, Nimco, Inc. supports ongoing drug education efforts in schools nationwide.

Red Ribbon Week is observed annually from October 23rd to 31st. Join us in making a difference by getting involved. To learn more about the contest and the campaign, visit www.RedRibbon.org.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Elizabeth Golshteyn
EGolshteyn@InformedFamilies.org

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About the National Family Partnership

The National Family Partnership was established in 1980 and is a national leader in drug prevention, education, and advocacy. Its mission is to educate families, and to help kids grow up safe, healthy and drug free, through the promotion of two national campaigns: Red Ribbon Week® and the Lock Your Meds® campaign for prescription drug abuse awareness. Learn more about Red Ribbon Week at www.RedRibbon.org, Lock Your Meds at www.LockYourMeds.org and NFP at www.nfp.org.

CONTACT: Elizabeth Golshteyn | National Family Partnership 

P: 305-856-4886
E: EGolshteyn@InformedFamilies.Org 

 

This Year the Red Ribbon Campaign Delivered over 200 Million Messages to Be Drug-Free! 

(Photo: Region 3 School Winner – Becky Hoffman – Lee’s Summit – Pleasant Lea Middle School )

December 4th, 2023 – Miami, FL– The results are in! The National Family Partnership (NFP) is proud to announce the twenty (20) winners of its 13th Annual National Red Ribbon Week® Photo Contest, held in conjunction with National Red Ribbon Week,® which takes place each year from October 23rd through 31st. Families and individuals who entered on behalf of their schools will receive an Apple iPad and a $1,000 donation will be made to the K-12 school of their choice in support of drug-free prevention education. 

Sponsored by the National Family Partnership (NFP) and co-sponsored by our longest standing partner, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the annual contest invites families and schools across the country to decorate the fronts of their homes and schools with a double-looped red ribbon to create awareness about the importance of staying drug-free.  In addition to the double-looped red ribbon, all photo contest submissions were required to incorporate the 2023 campaign Theme, “Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free.” ™    

National Family Partnership is leading the charge in America to help families and children to reach their full potential. NFP is committed to helping families and children reach their full potential. Nancy Reagan’s message from the 1980s is still relevant today as we face the latest drug epidemics-this is a disease of denial and blame. Parents are the Number One Direct Factor that kids don’t use drugs. This is why National Family Partnership partners with NIMCO. It is impossible to help without donations such as NIMCO. NIMCO is the only place families, children, and schools can purchase Red Ribbon Merchandise Theme material to support ongoing drug education in the schools.  

The 2023 Red Ribbon Week Theme, "Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free."™ was submitted by Danielle Helm, a Youth Service Coordinator from Russell County Middle School in Russell Springs, Kentucky. “I chose this theme because drugs alter our current brain development and hinders further growth. Drugs decrease levels of neurotransmitters in the reward system of our brain, such as Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins. This can block our brain from naturally experiencing happiness,” said Danielle. "Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free". is about making positive choices to be happy and healthy-that is being kind to our mind.”  

The winning photos were among hundreds of entries uploaded to www.RedRibbon.org. Ten (10) winners received the most votes in their designated regions, and ten (10) winners were chosen from a list of categories that included: Most Creative, Best Use of Theme, Most Educational, Most Ambitious, Best Use of Family and Community, and Most Creative School. 

"The red ribbon symbolizes a national unity on drug prevention” said Peggy Sapp, President and CEO of Informed Families and Volunteer President of National Family Partnership. “Our goal is to nurture a 21st century generation of children and teens who are taught about the dangers of substance misuse.” 

DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was murdered in 1985, is the inspiration behind the Red Ribbon Campaign. Americans started spontaneously wearing the red ribbon as symbol for drug education and awareness. The campaign and contest are reminders about the importance of staying drug-free, and the contest aims to engage communities in a fun and interactive way.   

Did You Win? Visit www.RedRibbon.org/Contest/Winners to view the twenty (20) winning photos! 

 

2023 Contest Winners 

Regional Home Winners: 

• Region 1 – Angela Mumford – Cambridge Springs, PA – Cambridge Springs Jr./Sr. High School 
• Region 2 – Emma Williams – Swanquarter, NC – Mattamuskeet School 
• Region 3 – Becky Barnhill – Edina, MO – Knox County School District 
• Region 4 – Jose Jacob Unsay – Dededo, Guam – John F. Kennedy High School 
• Region 5 – Dinah Joy Bustamante – Folsom, CA – Sutter Middle School  

 

Regional School Winners:  

• Region 1 – Kelly Sartre – Braintree, MA – Braintree High School  
• Region 2 – Jennifer Moser and Jacqueline Ortiz – Miramar, FL– Glades Middle School  
• Region 3 – Becky Hoffman – Lee’s Summit – Pleasant Lea Middle School 
• Region 4 – Erica Guevara – Brownsville, TX – A. X. Benavides Elementary School 

• Region 5 – Kristen Cunningham – Saratoga, California – Saratoga High School 

 

Home Judges Awards: 

• Most Creative – Laura Beebe Wiegand – Cambridge, MA – Buckingham Browne & Nichols School 
• Most Ambitious – Lynne Chambless – Tustin, CA – Calvary Christian School 
• Best Use of Family and Community – Jean Goy – Ramona, CA – Mt. Woodson Elementary School 
• Best Use of Theme – Dan Trinh – Alhambra, CA – Monterey Highlands Elementary School 
• Most Educational – Ruth Chi – Upper Marlboro, MD – St Mary of the Assumption 

 

School Judges Awards: 

• Most Creative – Alisa Nepp – Ringgold, GA – Ringgold Elementary School 
• Most Ambitious – Rachel Knight – Orlando, FL – Orlando Science Elementary 
• Best Use of Family and Community – SRO Deputy Jodi Kauffman – Wooster, OH – Triway Local Schools 
• Best Use of Theme – Angie Corno – Baltimore, MD – St. Joseph School-Fullerton 
• Most Educational – Carley Welborn – Diana, TX – New Diana High School 

 

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About the National Family Partnership  

The National Family Partnership was established in 1980 and is a national leader in drug prevention, education and advocacy. Its mission is to educate families, and to help kids grow up safe, healthy and drug free, through the promotion of two national campaigns: Red Ribbon Week® and the Lock Your Meds® campaign for prescription drug abuse awareness. Learn more about Red Ribbon Week at www.RedRibbon.org, Lock Your Meds at www.LockYourMeds.org and NFP at www.nfp.org.  

 UNITED STATES SENATE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, November 2, 2023

CONTACT:
Natalie Yezbick (Cornyn), (202) 224-0704
Meaghan McCabe (Whitehouse), (202) 224-2921


WASHINGTON – Today, the Senate passed a resolution from U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) recognizing Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest and longest-running drug-use prevention campaign. Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here.

“Whereas the National Family Partnership started the Red Ribbon Campaign in 1988—

(1) to educate the people of the United States and encourage participation in drug prevention activities;

(2) to preserve the memory of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena (referred to in this preamble as “Special Agent Camarena”), a special agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration who—

(A) served the Drug Enforcement Administration for 11 years; and

(B) was murdered in the line of duty in 1985, while engaged in the battle against illicit drugs;

(3) to commemorate the service of Special Agent Camarena to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the people of the United States; and

(4) to further the cause for which Special Agent Camarena gave his life;

Whereas the Red Ribbon Campaign is the longest-standing drug use prevention program in the United States, bringing drug awareness to millions of people in the United States each year;

Whereas Red Ribbon Week is celebrated every year during the period of October 23 through October 31 by—

(1) State Governors and attorneys general;

(2) the National Family Partnership;

(3) parent-teacher associations;

(4) Boys and Girls Clubs of America;

(5) the Young Marines;

(6) the Drug Enforcement Administration; and

(7) hundreds of other organizations throughout the United States;

Whereas the objective of Red Ribbon Week is to promote the creation of drug-free communities through drug use prevention efforts, education programs, parental involvement, and community-wide support through specific actions such as lighting up buildings and landmarks, and activities that engage the public;

Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdoses are the leading cause of death in people in the United States between the ages of 18 to 45, outnumbering deaths by firearms, motor vehicle crashes, suicide, or homicide;

Whereas nearly 110,000 people died from drug overdoses in the United States in 2022;

Whereas reducing the demand for illicit controlled substances would—

(1) curtail lethal addictions and overdoses; and

(2) reduce the violence associated with drug trafficking;

Whereas, although public awareness of illicit drug use is increasing, emerging drug threats and growing epidemics continue to demand attention;

Whereas the Drug Enforcement Administration hosts a National Take Back Day twice a year, on the last Saturdays of October and April, for the public to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs that can lead to accidental poisoning, overdose, or misuse;

Whereas the National Family Partnership hosts Lock Your Meds, a multi-media campaign and program to encourage individuals, businesses, and communities to dispose of drugs appropriately and to reduce the demand for drugs;

Whereas Lock Your Meds is statewide in Idaho, North Carolina, and throughout the southeastern United States;

Whereas synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and the analogues of fentanyl devastated communities and families at an unprecedented rate, claiming more than 70,000 lives in 2022;

Whereas the presence of fentanyl and the analogues of fentanyl pose hazards to police officers and law enforcement agents;

Whereas 6 out of 10 fake prescription pills containing fentanyl tested at Drug Enforcement Administration laboratories contain a potentially deadly dose of fentanyl;

Whereas the Drug Enforcement Administration has created a special exhibit entitled “The Faces of Fentanyl” to commemorate the lives lost from fentanyl poisoning, and has received over 5,000 photos as of the date of enactment of this resolution;

Whereas the Drug Enforcement Administration seized more than 59,600,000 fentanyl-laced, fake prescription pills and more than 13,000 pounds of fentanyl powder in 2022;

Whereas, nearly 6,000 people in the United States died from a drug overdose involving heroin in 2022, a rate of nearly 2 deaths for every 100,000 people in the United States;

Whereas, from 2021 to 2022, drug overdose deaths involving cocaine increased by nearly 13 percent, with almost 28,000 people in the United States dying from such an overdose in 2022;

Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2,500,000 people in the United States aged 12 or older reported having used methamphetamine in 2020;

Whereas psychostimulants with abuse potential, such as methamphetamine, were involved in 1.2 times as many drug overdose deaths as cocaine; and

Whereas parents, young people, schools, businesses, law enforcement agencies, religious institutions and faith-based organizations, service organizations, senior citizens, medical and military personnel, sports teams, and individuals throughout the United States will demonstrate their commitment to healthy, productive, and drug-free lifestyles by wearing and displaying red ribbons during the week-long celebration of Red Ribbon Week; Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate—

(1) supports the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week during the period of October 23 through October 31, 2023;

(2) encourages the people of the United States to wear and display red ribbons during Red Ribbon Week to symbolize their commitment to healthy, drug-free lifestyles;

(3) encourages the people of the United States to light up buildings and landmarks to send a drug-free message;

(4) encourages children, teens, and other individuals to choose to live drug-free lives; and

(5) encourages the people of the United States—

(A) to promote the creation of drug-free communities; and

(B) to participate in drug use prevention activities to show support for healthy, productive, and drug-free lifestyles.”

 

###
Source Link

Audrey Cook

Deputy Press Secretary

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX)

P: (202) 322-4904

Illuminating America in Red to Support Drug-Free Prevention

October 17, 2023 – Miami, FL – As we come together in this season of Red Ribbon Week, we are reminded of the enduring commitment to a drug-free and healthy lifestyle for our youth and our communities. But just as we pledge to keep our bodies free from harm, we must also extend that commitment to our minds—our most precious assets. 

During Red Ribbon Week, October 23rd-31st, national landmarks light up in red to recognize the nation’s oldest and largest drug misuse prevention awareness program. In recognition of Red Ribbon Week, several landmarks in the State of Florida will light up in red to bring awareness to living a drug-free life.  

The 2022 Red Ribbon Light Up was one of IF's, NFP's Florida partner, most participated and successful campaigns. The Red Ribbon Light Up reached 126,563 Impressions with Geofenced Ads in Miami, Orlando, and Tallahassee.  

Let’s make 2023 even brighter! A complete list of landmarks in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Tallahassee who are Lightning Up America in Red can be found below. Communities across the nation are encouraged to Light Up America Red by lighting up classrooms, offices, libraries, and other locations in red using red bulbs, gel filters or red balloons and decorations. Everyone can participate, don’t be shy to shine a light on celebrating a Drug-Free life! 

Participants can post Go Red for Red Ribbon photos or if they spot one of the landmarks lightning up in red on social media using the hashtags #GoRedforRedRibbon and #LightUpAmericaRed. 

To learn more about how your school or community can host a Red Ribbon Week event, please contact  Elizabeth Golshteyn at egolshteyn@informedfamilies.org.  

 

Miami 

Brickell World Plaza 

Miami Paramount Worldcenter  

City of Hialeah 

MDC Freedom Tower 

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) 

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science 

Biltmore Hotel 

Hard Rock Stadium 

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood 

 

Orlando 

Amway Center Spire 

Cedar of Lebanon  

Astrogenesis II 

Fountain at Lake Eola  

Take Flight 

Tower of Light 

City Hall Fountain 

 

Tampa 

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge 

Bridges on Brorein Steet, Kennedy Blvd., Fortune Street, and Platt Street 

Curtis Hixon Park Palm Trees & Louver Fountain 

Riverwalk 

Old City Hall 

Tallahassee  

Florida State Capitol 

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About the National Family Partnership  

The National Family Partnership was established in 1980 and is a national leader in drug prevention, education, and advocacy. Its mission is to lead our nation’s families and communities in nurturing the full potential of healthy, drug-free youth. Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s largest and oldest drug prevention campaign. NFP created the campaign in response to the 1985 abduction and murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. In addition to the Red Ribbon Campaign®, NFP sponsors the Lock Your Meds® Campaign to prevent prescription drug abuse. Learn more about Red Ribbon Week at www.redribbon.org and NFP at www.nfp.org.  

Contest Submissions Accepted through November 1st

October 1, 2023 – Miami, FL – Beginning October 1st, students, families, and schools across America are invited to participate in the 13th Annual National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest aimed at raising visibility to live drug-free by being creative. The contest, sponsored by the National Family Partnership (NFP) and co-sponsored by our longest standing partner, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will be held in conjunction with National Red Ribbon Week, which takes place each year from October 23rd through 31st. The contest will award more than $20,000 to K-12 schools in cities across America.

The DEA has been a longtime co-sponsor of the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest, which is now in its thirteenth year. Keeping communities Drug-Free is a mission both the DEA and NFP have been laser focused on sharing for many years. NFP hopes this fun and interactive photo contest will bring awareness about living Drug-Free to communities across the country.

The photo contest involves participants decorating the fronts of their homes (front door, mailbox, or fence), and/or school campuses with double-looped red ribbons while incorporating this year's Red Ribbon theme, “Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug-Free”. ™ Submitted by Danielle Helm, a Youth Service Coordinator from Russell County Middle School in Russell Springs, Kentucky. Participants enter the contest by taking a photo of their decorations (preferably with people in it!) and uploading it to the redribbon.org/contest website. You must be 18 years old to enter, so parents (or for school entries, school staff or PTA members) must submit the photos.

NFP has been the leading organization in drug-free prevention for forty (40) years. NFP is committed to helping families and children reach their full potential and it is impossible to help without donations such as NIMCO. NIMCO is the only place families, children, and schools can purchase Red Ribbon Merchandise Theme material to support ongoing drug education in the schools.

Twenty winners will be selected from two entry categories: Home Entry or School Entry. The top five schools and top five home submissions that receive the most votes in five designated DEA regions across the country will win $1,000 for the school of their choice and an Apple iPad for personal use. Additionally, ten winners will be selected from the following categories: Most Creative, Most Ambitious Best Use of Family and Community, Best Use of Theme, and Most Educational. The winners of these categories will also win $1,000 for the school of their choice and an Apple iPad for personal use.

"The Red Ribbon Campaign is a massive community engagement process,” said Peggy Sapp, President of National Family Partnership and President and CEO of Informed Families. “It is how to decrease demand for drugs and increase awareness of health and safety.”

The contest begins October 1st at 9 a.m. E.S.T. and ends November 1st at 9 p.m. E.S.T. The voting period begins November 2nd and ends November 16th. The 2022 Red Ribbon Photo Contest Winners will be announced December 4th. Please visit www.redribbon.org/contest for more information.

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About the National Family Partnership

The National Family Partnership was established in 1980 and is a national leader in drug prevention, education, and advocacy. Its mission is to lead our nation’s families and communities in nurturing the full potential of healthy, drug-free youth. Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s largest and oldest drug prevention campaign. NFP created the campaign in response to the 1985 abduction and murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. In addition to the Red Ribbon Campaign®, NFP sponsors the Lock Your Meds® Campaign to prevent prescription drug abuse. Learn more about Red Ribbon Week at www.redribbon.org and NFP at www.nfp.org.

Make Something Delicious Together on Family Day, Monday, September 25th!

August 15^th, 2023 – Miami, FL–  A Parent is a Child’s first Teacher and the most influential Educator in a Child’s life. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found that the more often kids eat dinner with their families (five to seven per week), the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs. It is important to establish a routine with your children and dinner is the easiest way for engagement and communication.

MAKE SOMETHING DELICIOUS TOGETHER ON FAMILY DAY, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2023.

Hectic work schedule? Swimming in after-school activities? Do outside influences interfere with your family’s dinnertime?

Family Days™ (celebrated this year September 25, 2023) is a national effort to promote family dinners as an effective way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors. Informed Families invite you to spend time with the original social network (your family at the dinner table!) and join us in standing up for sitting down to dinner.

Share a photo of your family eating dinner together on social media! Tag @InformedFamilies and use #FLFamilyDay and #SittingDownwithIF, so you can be featured on our social media platforms! Three random winners will be selected to win a $100 Publix Gift Card PLUS the Florida school with the most entries will receive a $250 Publix Gift Card! How awesome is that? You can use these gift cards to buy more delicious food to make with your family!

Visit www.InformedFamilies.org/FD to learn more about Family Day and access activities and recipes, so you can continue Helping Us Raise Safe, Healthy, Drug-Free Kids.

 

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About Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership

Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is a broad-based, grass roots volunteer/parent organization that is affiliated with the National Family Partnership. Informed Families is an education, training and support center for parents, schools, and communities to help raise safe, healthy, and drug-free children. We teach people how to say no to drugs and how to make healthy choices. To reduce the demand for drugs, Informed Families has focused its efforts on educating and mobilizing the community, parents, and young people to change attitudes. In this way we counteract the pressures in society that condone and promote drug and alcohol use and abuse. The organization educates thousands of families annually about how to stay drug and alcohol free through networking and a variety of programs and services. Informed Families offers children's substance abuse prevention activities in various locations throughout the State of Florida. Visit informedfamilies.org to learn more.