A Message from Our President: Be a Hero. Make a Difference.

This year's theme, “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.™,” carries an important message: Every one of us has the power to be a hero through the choices we make and the examples we set.

For decades, Red Ribbon Week has united families, schools, businesses, and communities in promoting healthy, drug-free lifestyles. What began as a tribute to DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena has grown into a nationwide movement that continues to inspire generations of young people.

This year, I am especially proud to recognize the community of Griswold, Connecticut, where our 2026 national Red Ribbon Week theme was born.

Ava Tackett, a student at Griswold Middle School, created this year's winning theme with guidance and encouragement from her health teacher, Kristen Butremovic. Her inspiring message reminds young people that they do not need extraordinary powers to make a difference. Every healthy decision is an opportunity to lead by example and positively influence others.

I also want to recognize the educators, school administrators, families, and community prevention partners throughout Griswold, including the Griswold PRIDE coalition, whose collaborative efforts demonstrate the true spirit of Red Ribbon Week. Their commitment to empowering young people and building a community-centered culture of prevention is an example for communities nationwide. 

We are also proud to recognize One Voice of Hunterdon in New Jersey, whose creative Red Ribbon Week billboard campaign brings this year's theme directly into its community. Their initiative demonstrates how prevention organizations can use creative outreach to keep important messages visible and inspire healthy choices.

These communities remind us that Red Ribbon Week is much more than an annual celebration. It is a movement driven by people who care deeply about the well-being of the next generation.

As we prepare for this year's celebration, I encourage everyone to think about what being a hero means in their own lives. Heroes are parents who have meaningful conversations with their children, educators who provide guidance and encouragement, young people who lead by example, and community organizations that dedicate themselves to prevention.

We also celebrate the families who participated in our recent Family Day activities, reminding us that building strong relationships at home is one of the most important ways we can support prevention.

As Red Ribbon Week approaches, I invite you to participate, share your activities, encourage others, and continue these conversations long after October ends.

Together, we can make a difference, inspire healthy choices, and show the next generation that everyone has the power to be a hero.

Wishing you a meaningful and inspiring Red Ribbon Week!

Peggy B. Sapp
President & CEO
National Family Partnership | Informed Families