As I sat on a call recently, someone asked a thought-provoking question: “Why is prevention such a hard sell?” It’s something I’ve reflected on often over the years.

Turn on the news and you’ll notice—bad stories dominate the headlines. We seem drawn to the drama, the fear, the chaos. Maybe it gives us a strange sense of adrenaline or relief—“thank goodness that’s not me.” But what about the quiet stories of success, of prevention, of families making healthy choices every day? Those don’t often make the front page, even though they shape stronger, safer communities.

Let’s look at another field that’s made prevention work: dentistry. For decades, dentists have effectively promoted daily actions—brush after meals, floss regularly, visit every six months. And what happens? We comply! Why? Because we want to avoid that dental chair. There’s a clear connection between preventive habits and positive outcomes.

So why, when it comes to raising healthy, drug-free kids, do we hesitate? When Informed Families shares simple, positive steps—like having dinner together, setting boundaries, or communicating with your children—so many parents say, “We don’t have time.” But the truth is, we do. It’s not about time—it’s about priorities, and perhaps even about accountability. If not you, then who?

Another key piece of prevention is connection. Building strong social networks—families, neighbors, and communities—protects us and our children. Are you intentionally building those networks? Are you nurturing the relationships that help your family grow stronger?

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this month, I can’t help but think back to the Pilgrims. They paused to express gratitude—not because they had extra time, but because they understood the power of coming together to give thanks for their blessings and their hard work. Gratitude isn’t just a holiday gesture—it’s a mindset that shapes our health and happiness.

Someone asked me recently what has changed most since Informed Families began in 1982. My answer: personal accountability. We live in a time where we believe someone else can fix things for us—if we just pay the right expert or find the right shortcut. But life doesn’t work that way. Life is a do-it-yourself project. Each of us is responsible for building the kind of life and family we want.

So, as you gather around your Thanksgiving table this year, take a moment to ask each person what they’re most thankful for. You might be surprised how gratitude changes the tone of the entire day. It’s one of the most powerful motivators we have—and one of the simplest forms of prevention.

 

Every October, millions of families, schools, and communities unite to celebrate Red Ribbon Week, a tradition that continues to remind us of the power of prevention and the importance of making safe, healthy choices. Since 1985, this campaign has stood as a national symbol of hope — built around one simple, yet life-changing truth: the power of one choice.

One choice can shape a day, a friendship, or a lifetime.
As parents, mentors, and community leaders, the choices we make — what we say, how we act, and the examples we set — send messages that echo through generations. When we choose to talk openly with our children about the dangers of drug use and model positive ways to manage stress or challenges, we empower them to make decisions that strengthen their futures.

This year’s Red Ribbon Week theme, “Life Is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™”, reminds us that life is made up of many interconnected pieces — our decisions, relationships, values, and experiences. Each piece influences the next, and together they form the larger picture of who we become. When we make healthy, drug-free choices, the pieces align into a meaningful, successful life.

Looking back, I’m reminded of a story shared with us in 2012 by Ryan Washburn, a member of the New Hampshire Army National Guard Counterdrug Program. Ryan reached out as he prepared to visit local schools and speak with students about living drug free. He also organized helicopter flyovers to capture aerial photos of schools forming red ribbon shapes on their grounds — a powerful image of unity and purpose.

In my response to Ryan, I encouraged him to tell students that each one of them has the power of “one.” One person can make a difference — for their friends, families, schools, and communities. One person who chooses to live drug free creates a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same. But one person who chooses to use drugs may close the door to opportunities — college acceptance, scholarships, career goals, and even the ability to fly a helicopter, like Ryan does today.

That same message was reflected in a program created by Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Beth Bloom and her son, Jacob Stern, founders of the Listen UP program. The program educates and empowers parents to take action to prevent permanent consequences from their teens’ mistakes. It raises important questions many families overlook: What happens when your child is caught with a fake ID? Can you be fined or jailed for serving alcohol at a party held in your home? Their goal is to help parents understand that actions have consequences — some short term, others long term — but all shaping the direction of one’s life.

At National Family Partnership, we continue to share these lessons because prevention is not just a one-time message; it’s a way of life. It begins at home with open communication, family connection, and consistent guidance. It grows when schools, businesses, and communities unite around the same purpose — encouraging every young person to make strong, smart, drug-free choices.

As we celebrate Red Ribbon Week from October 23–31, I invite you to take part in one small action that supports prevention. Light your home or business in red. Wear your red ribbon proudly. Talk with a child about how one choice can change everything.

Together, we’re helping every individual — one person, one choice, and one puzzle piece at a time — create a brighter, drug-free future.

September is a special month at National Family Partnership as we celebrate Family Day on September 22—a national movement that reminds us of the power of eating meals together and making time for meaningful connection.

Sometimes, the most effective ways to strengthen families aren’t complicated. They’re simple, intentional acts we can all put into practice. Here are some easy, yet powerful ways to create a healthy, connected home:

1. Share a Meal Together

Eating dinner (or any meal) with your children is one of the strongest protective factors against risky behaviors. Use this time not just to eat, but to talk and share. Try simple questions like:

• What was the best thing that happened to you today?

• What was the hardest thing that happened?

These conversations open the door for children and adults alike to share feelings, instead of letting them build up silently.

2. Practice Gratitude

Encourage every family member to share one thing they’re grateful for. An “attitude of gratitude” helps shift focus from stress to positivity and strengthens resilience.

3. Disconnect to Connect

Phones on the table mean distractions. During family time, put devices away and on silent so you can focus fully on each other.

4. Create a Family Bulletin Board

Post schedules, contact information, and even a family chore chart where everyone can see it. A sense of structure, belonging, and purpose helps children feel safe and supported.

5. Reflect on Traditions and Values

Ask yourself: What social or cultural norms shape our family? Do we attend religious services together? What routines help us feel connected? Recognizing and practicing these traditions builds identity and belonging.

6. Make Time When Dinner Isn’t Possible

Busy schedules don’t always allow for family dinners. That’s okay. Try Family Table Time, a flexible way to connect at another time that works for your family. The point isn’t when you gather—it’s that you gather.

Why It Matters

Structure, belonging, and purpose are critical for healthy families. When we model intentional connection, we give our children tools to thrive.

This Family Day, join National Family Partnership in making meals matter. Use our Family Day Placemat to spark conversation and practice these simple strategies together.

Download the Family Day Placemat 

Together, we can make every day Family Day.

National Family Partnership proudly welcomes the newly appointed DEA Administrator, Mr. Terry Cole, and look forward to working together to strengthen prevention efforts, reduce drug demand, and build safer, healthier communities nationwide.

Terrance C. “Terry” Cole was sworn in as Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration on July 23, 2025. With over 31 years of public service, including two decades as a DEA Special Agent, he brings deep operational expertise and a lifelong commitment to public safety. From leading major domestic and international assignments to overseeing Virginia’s public safety agencies and achieving the nation’s largest overdose death reduction, Administrator Cole’s career reflects dedication, leadership, and results. Now, he is guiding the DEA into a new era of enforcement, partnerships, and life-saving prevention efforts.

 

 

Remember when Sunday dinner at grandma’s was the weekly tradition? When family time meant gathering around a table or activity—not around separate screens? While times have changed, the need for real connection hasn’t.

Today’s families face countless distractions—packed schedules, digital devices, social media noise—all pulling us in different directions. Add to that the challenge of loved ones living in different cities, time zones, or even college campuses, and staying close takes more creativity than ever.

But connection is still possible. It just requires intention.

Here are a few simple, modern ways families can reconnect—even from afar:

• Schedule weekly meaningful time. Make it a priority to carve out time each week—whether it’s a game night, dinner, or a quick ice cream outing. For loved ones away at college or living far from home, a simple Zoom call can help bridge the gap. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a consistent moment to catch up, share a laugh, and stay connected, no matter the distance.
• Pick one device-free night each week. Whether it’s dinner, a walk, or a game night—being fully present matters more than what you do.
• Use conversation starters. Ask questions that go beyond “How was your day?” Try: What made you laugh this week? or What would you do with a million dollars?
  
• Share your calendar. Knowing what’s going on in each other’s lives helps everyone feel more connected, even when apart.

At the National Family Partnership, our mission is to support families in building strong, healthy relationships—because when kids feel connected, they’re less likely to turn to risky behaviors like drugs or alcohol.

Our four prevention campaigns are designed to help parents do just that:

1. Family Day – Celebrating shared meals and togetherness.
2. Red Ribbon Week – Encouraging safe, drug-free choices.
3. Lock Your Meds – Promoting responsible prescription storage.
4. Safe Homes Smart Parties – Guiding families to create safe social environments for teens.

Whether it’s reviving the tradition of Sunday dinners or embracing new tools like virtual gatherings, the message is simple: consistent, intentional time together matters.

Let’s make connection a priority—wherever we are.

Warmly,
Peggy B. Sapp
President

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