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3 min read

National Family Partnership Unveils 2024 Red Ribbon Week Theme

By Elizabeth Golshteyn on Jan 31, 2024 11:27:30 AM

"Life is A Movie, Film Drug Free."™

NFP24 BANNER THEME FINAL

January 31st, 2023 – 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.

2024 theme winners - blog

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.

Topics: red ribbon theme red ribbon campaign
13 min read

The Red Ribbon Photo Contest Brings Others to Join Forces with Their Community (Big or Small)!

By NFP on Dec 4, 2023 12:21:35 PM

Text Box

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! 

Becky Hoffman_Region 3

(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 

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest
4 min read

Cornyn, Whitehouse Resolution Recognizing Red Ribbon Week Passes Senate

By Audrey Cook on Nov 8, 2023 12:00:31 PM


5789846903_272868e5e3_b


 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

8 min read

Local Landmarks Get RED-Y for Red Ribbon Week

By NFP on Oct 17, 2023 11:23:02 AM

Illuminating America in Red to Support Drug-Free Prevention

Light up Red (400 × 300 px)

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 

 rrw-light-up-red-gmd

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 

Topics: red ribbon week light up red
3 min read

The 13th Annual National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest Kicks Off October 1, 2023

By NFP on Oct 1, 2023 8:30:00 AM

Contest Submissions Accepted through November 1st

Region 5 - Canyon Elementary
Region 2 - M. Izzo
Triad Math and Science Academy
Region 3 - D. Trinh
Region 3 - Pleasant Lea Middle School copy
Region 1 - M. Aydin

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.

Topics: red ribbon photo contest red ribbon campaign
2 min read

Sit Down with Your Family on September 25th!

By NFP on Sep 11, 2023 3:50:03 PM

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

Screen Shot 2023-08-31 at 2.25.35 PM

August 15th, 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.
Topics: Family Day
1 min read

Back-to-School is Around the Corner!

By NFP on Aug 15, 2023 1:41:37 PM

We Are Here to Help with the Flurry of Back-to-School!

 

August 15, 2023 – Miami, FL – Back to School, those words create a flurry of emotion in each of us. What are the first words that pop into your mind? What are the first words that pop into your child’s mind? Now is a good time to get in touch with these emotions and talk about them with your child(ren). Keep in mind that these emotions will differ from child to child. We invite you to create a word list for emotions and feelings about going back-to-school. Excited, happy, scared, disappointed, rushed, hurried, overwhelmed, sad, busy, eager (add more or your own). Take this list and ask yourself to describe your feelings about the back-to-school season. Take this same exercise and repeat it with your child(ren). There are no right or wrong answers, this exercise is meant to recognize you and your child’s feelings to stimulate an open conversation!

The National Family Partnership is a parent’s cheerleader, let us know how we can help you.

Happy School Year 2023-2024! May it be your best year yet.

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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.

 

Topics: education red ribbon back to school

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day to Remove Unneeded Prescriptions, Prevent Addiction

By DEA Public Affairs on Apr 21, 2023 12:41:55 PM

dea takeback blog page-01

 

Topics: red ribbon week lock your meds dea take back
1 min read

New Mobile Response Line Launches

By Thriving Mind South Florida on Apr 4, 2023 9:01:05 AM

westcare

As of April 1, Mobile Response Teams in Miami-Dade County will be provided by WestCare/The Village South.

Mobile Response Teams will provide immediate, on-site behavioral health crisis intervention services to individuals of all ages.

Please note the new phone number for the Mobile Response line for individuals is 1-800-HELP-YOU (1-800-435-7968). It is monitored 24/7.

Attached is the flyer for the general public. Please distribute as needed.

Guidance Care Center operates the Mobile Response Team in Monroe County.

To see full list of mental health and substance use treatment services The Village South provides through its Thriving Mind contract, go here.

1 min read

Creating Hope for Future Generations Through the Eye of a Camera and Photo

By NFP on Mar 31, 2023 10:12:56 AM

What does Red Ribbon mean to you?

Our 2022 Red Ribbon Photo Contest Winners told us their story on their motivation to participate in the 2022 Red Ribbon Photo Contest, co-sponsored by our long standing partner, The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). They were able to tell us how they got their community and kids involved in a fun and safe way to educate and bring awareness about drug prevention. Thank you to Miami Community Newspapers and Alex who edited and produced this heartwarming video about creating hope for future generations through the eye of a camera and photo.



Music: Start by Roa https://soundcloud.com/roa_music1031
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/3JtVasq Music promoted by Audio Library • Start - Roa (No C..)

Topics: red ribbon

DEA Reports Widespread Threat of Fentanyl Mixed with Xylazine

By Drug Enforcement Administration, Administrator Anne Milgram on Mar 27, 2023 1:14:32 PM

DEA Issues Public Safety Alert on Xylazine-01

Topics: prevention dea
5 min read

2023 Enrique Camarena Award Recipient Announced

By NFP on Feb 3, 2023 9:56:58 AM

Kiki and the History of Red Ribbon

 

February 2nd, 2023 – Miami, FL– Enrique (Kiki) S. Camarena was born on July 26, 1947, in Mexicali, Mexico. He graduated from Calexico High School in Calexico, California in 1966, and in 1968 he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After serving in the Marine Corps for two years, Kiki was a Calexico fireman, Calexico police officer, and an Imperial County Deputy Sheriff. Kiki joined the Drug Enforcement Administration in June of 1974. His first assignment as a Special Agent with DEA was in a familiar place - Calexico, California.

In 1977, after three years in Calexico, 37-year-old Kiki was reassigned to the Fresno District Office in Northern California. Four years later, Kiki received transfer orders to Mexico, where he would work out of the Guadalajara Resident Office. For more than four years in Mexico, Kiki remained on the trail of the country's biggest marijuana and cocaine traffickers. In early 1985, he was extremely close to unlocking a multi-billion-dollar drug pipeline. However, before he was able to expose the drug trafficking operations to the public, he was kidnapped on February 7, 1985. On that fateful day, while headed to a luncheon with his wife, Mika, Kiki was surrounded by five armed men who threw him into a car and sped away. That was the last time anyone, but his kidnappers would see him alive. 

In honor of Camarena’s memory and his battle against illegal drugs, friends and neighbors began to wear red badges of satin. Parents, sick of the destruction of alcohol and other drugs, had begun forming coalitions. Some of these new coalitions embraced Camarena’s belief that one person can make a difference. These coalitions also adopted the symbol of Camarena’s memory, the red ribbon. During his 11 years with DEA, Kiki received two Sustained Superior Performance Awards, a Special Achievement Award and, posthumously, the Administrator’s Award of Honor, the highest award granted by DEA. 

In 1988, NFP sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Celebration. Today, the Red Ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Since that time, the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families. The National Family Partnership (NFP) and its network of individuals and organizations continue to deliver his message of hope to millions of people every year, through the National Red Ribbon Campaign™. Today, NFP hosts the annual Enrique Camarena Award, an award given to an individual who believes and understands the power of the individual voice to reach and influence the larger community for drug prevention. 

katie (1)(Picture: Katie Nuñez Vasquez)

Katie Nuñez Vasquez is the 2023 Enrique Camarena Award Recipient. Katie is a student activist and community leader in Santa Barbara, California. Katie has led incredible work in the field and drug prevention system. As a young leader, Katie focuses on using her voice in policy change and educating her peers. Katie played a pivotal role in passing the Off-State Alcohol Ordinance, a policy that reduces underage alcohol access for minors, minimizes alcohol advertising to youth, holds liquor stores accountable, and eliminates alcohol mini bottles. Katie made sure to use her voice to speak with the Santa Barbara Officials about the importance of mitigating the normalization of alcohol in Santa Barbra and shared proposals to further prevent underage drinking in the County. Katie takes tangible actions to improve the well-being of her peers and community. Furthermore, Katie has led two (2) national drug-prevention campaigns for three (3) years: National Prevention Week and Red Ribbon Week. For Red Ribbon Week, she facilitated Plant the Promise and over 30+ youth sign pledges. Both activities encouraged her peers to commit to raising awareness, have a drug-free lifestyle, and help others learn about the importance of staying healthy and drug-free.

NFP had the pleasure of interviewing Katie to learn more about her outstanding commitment to her community.

NFP: What made you get into community work and drug-free prevention?

K: The need for advocacy work in my community is what drew me into advocating. Coming from a Hispanic background, alcohol isn’t foreign to us. I remember one of the first projects I worked on dealt with drug free prevention. I along with peers obtained data necessary to explain the rise in substance usage in Santa Barbara. The survey contained questions about whether one believed Santa Barbara was turning into a drunk zone. Taking a walk-through state street is a clear indicator that it is. Future Leaders of America, a non-profit organization I’m a part of, is working towards pushing an end to off-site alcohol sales after midnight. The positive effects of projects such as these is what motivates me to continue to advocate.

 

NFP: Do you enjoy working in the community? Do you involve your peers?

K: I have come to find myself dedicating my time to advocate for my community. In the beginning I saw it as an opportunity to improve my college application but as time passed, I have come to grow a passion for it. FLA has truly helped me discover this part of me that I never thought I had. FLA has pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraged me, and has made me see the impact I can do as a teen in my community. Advocacy work is not a solo project. It requires a team who is just as passionate and willing to do all the small and big things. Becoming a part of the student council it’s my role to push my peers out of their comfort zone to advocate as well.

Congratulations to Ms. Katie Nuñez Vasquez for being the recipient of the 2023 Enrique Camarena Award. It is leaders like yourself that encourage young individuals to live healthy and Drug-Free. Let’s continue to make America Drug-Free!

If you know someone who is an outstanding contributor to the field of drug prevention in your community, you may nominate them by completing the Enrique Camarena award form located inside the Parent/School Planning Guide. You can download it at www.redribbon.org/downloads/

Red Ribbon Week takes place each year from October 23rd through 31st.  We invite you to join us by getting involved. Learn more about the contest and the campaign by visiting www.RedRibbon.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 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.

Topics: education drug prevention recognition red ribbon campaign Enrique Camarena Award Recipient
3 min read

2023 National Red Ribbon Theme Announced "Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free.™"

By NFP on Jan 30, 2023 9:00:00 AM

2023 theme - clean

January 30th, 2023 – Miami, FL– Today the National Family Partnership (NFP) unveiled its 2023 Red Ribbon Week 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. This year’s theme is a reminder that everyday Americans across the country make significant daily contributions to their communities by being the best they can be because they live Drug-Free!

Each year, the National Family Partnership sponsors the Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest. The theme contest invites millions of Americans across the country to submit a unique slogan that captures the essence and mission of the campaign. Danielle’s theme was chosen because it encourages us to do our individual parts to keep our communities safe, healthy and drug free. All segments of the community, health care workers, police officers, educators, school bus drivers, parents… people just like you and me, are examples of what we can achieve through self-dedication, care, and commitment. The theme encourages everyone to use their voice to make a difference no matter who they are, where they’re from or what they do. The possibilities are endless when we work together!

“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.”

NFP organized the first Nationwide Red Ribbon Campaign in response to the murder of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena who was tortured and killed in Mexico in 1985. After his murder, parents, and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the destruction caused by drugs in America.

“The theme contest is just one-way NFP brings awareness to the community,” said Peggy B. Sapp, NFP President. “Each year we strive to engage the public by inviting them to share what living Drug-Free means to them. This year we are inviting them to show us what Drug-Free looks like by sharing different photos of themselves as representatives of the community.”

Theme submissions are accepted each year from January 1st through December 4th and winners of the contest receive $500 in Ribbon Week themed merchandise courtesy of Nimco, Inc. NIMCO is the only place families, children, and schools can purchase Red Ribbon Merchandise Theme material to support ongoing drug education in the schools.

Red Ribbon Week takes place each year from October 23rd through 31st. We invite you to join us by getting involved. Learn more about the contest and the campaign by visiting www.RedRibbon.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 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.

 

 

 

Topics: red ribbon week prevention red ribbon theme recognition red ribbon campaign
3 min read

Lock Your Meds Gives Adults A Voice to Keep Kids Safe from Prescription Medication

By NFP on Jan 11, 2023 12:59:12 PM

Lock Your Meds Initiative is a Universal Prevention Campaign

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January 11th, 2023 – Miami, FL– Did you know that 53% of misused medications come from family and friends, not a stranger/drug dealer or the internet? The Lock Your Meds® campaign, created by the National Family Partnership and its affiliate Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership is a universal prevention campaign intended to save lives by preventing prescription drug misuse, which is the fastest growing substance misuse problem in America. 

Currently, the drug problem has a different identity and must be addressed with new combat tactics. To think that you, as parents and grandparents, could unknowingly be a supplier of prescription medications to your children is disturbing. Through our established, national network of supporters such as Community Impact North Carolina and Publix Pharmacy®, we can begin to educate our nation on the Lock Your Meds® initiative and help parents implement preventative steps to keep children and teens from accessing these medications. However, our work doesn’t stop here.

We want to grow and join forces with you, your community groups and your healthcare organizations that are not yet involved. We want to help arm each of you with the appropriate information and tools to be our Number One line of defense against this growing epidemic. The Lock Your Meds® campaign utilizes a variety of mediums to deliver its message, and all are available to you for use in your organization’s efforts and in your community. These resources can be found at https://lockyourmeds.org/spread-the-word/. 

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As parents and guardians, you don’t have to feel helpless in this fight. You must be aware and take the appropriate steps to not share. Everyone can implement these preventative steps to help ensure your children have a drug-free future:

  • Take frequent inventory of your medications, keeping track of quantities of both prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
  • Lock your meds in a safe location where children cannot access them.
  • Talk to your children regularly about the dangers of misusing prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
  • Get involved by joining our campaign.
  • Purchase a Vaultz® Lockbox to instill proper storage for your prescription medication at https://www.nfp.org/store. 

Knowledge helps save lives. In these last 25 years, it has taken more than just our core staff at NFP to share that knowledge of drug prevention with our nation. We are very thankful for all the parent groups, Red Ribbon Certified Schools, community groups, healthcare professionals and organizations that joined in our efforts to educate and nurture parents and families.

We are especially grateful to Community Impact NC and Publix Pharmacy® for their generous support of the Lock Your Meds® campaign. We look forward to continuing to support each of you on a national and local level, providing you with resources and a national voice.

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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.

 

Topics: lock your meds drug prevention national family partnership
1 min read

People Are Gifts

By NFP on Dec 19, 2022 10:17:25 AM

As we enter the “official” season of giving, we all start to think about appropriate gifts for each of our loved ones. We may forget, however, that the gift of ourselves is the best gift of all. The following essay is one which we have published before, many times, but it never fails to touch my heart and helps me realize anew how important its message is. I hope you enjoy it too. Happy Holidays!

People Are Gifts Sent To Me Wrapped!
Some are wrapped beautifully;
They are attractive when I first see them.

Some come in very ordinary wrapping paper.
Others have been mishandled in the mail.
Once in a while, there is a “Special Delivery.”

Some persons are gifts that come very loosely wrapped;
Others very tightly.

But the wrapping is not the gift!
It is easy to make that mistake…
It is amusing when babies do it.

Sometimes the gifts are very easy to open.
Sometimes I need others to help.
Is it because they are afraid?
Does it hurt?
Maybe they have been opened up before and thrown away~

I am a person.
Therefore, I am a gift to myself first of all.

Have I ever looked inside the wrappings?
Afraid to?
Perhaps I’ve never accepted the gift that I am.
Could there be something else inside the wrappings than what I think there is?
Maybe I’ve never seen the wonderful gift that I am!

Am I a gift to other people?

Do others have to be content with my wrappings…
Never permitted to enjoy the gift?

Every meeting of persons is an exchange of gifts.

But a gift without a giver is not a gift.

Friendship is the gift of persons to each other,
For each other, and for others.

 Happy Holidays To You & Your Family From All Of Us At National Family Partnership
-Peggy Sapp, President & CEO

3 min read

National Red Ribbon Week® Photo Contest Brings Drug Prevention Awareness to Schools Across America

By NFP on Dec 5, 2022 8:52:28 AM

The 2022 Red Ribbon Photo Contest Winners Announced

 

December 1st, 2022 – Miami, FL– The results are in! The National Family Partnership (NFP) is proud to announce the nineteen (19) winners of its 12th 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 National Family Partnership (NFP) and co-sponsored by 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 2022 campaign Theme, Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free. ™

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.

Melissa Terlaje, a school counselor and advocate for Red Ribbon Week at Chinook in Auburn, Washington, submitted her photo on behalf of the school and received the School Judges Award. “This is a huge honor not only for my school but also for our district as this is the first year we’ve participated in Red Ribbon. Our staff and students had no idea what Red Ribbon was about,” she said. “Coming into the role as the school counselor this year, one of my goals was to educate my students on the importance of making healthy life choices. This will be the first of many participations in this event!”

The winning photos were among hundreds of entries uploaded to RedRibbon.org. Nine (9) 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 Campaign is a massive community engagement process,” said Peggy Sapp, President and CEO of Informed Families and Volunteer President of National Family Partnership. “It is how to decrease demand for drugs and increase awareness of health and safety.”

The DEA Field Officers from the five (5) divisions will be attending each school to present a check ceremony for the winning photos.

DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was murdered in 1985, is the inspiration behind the Red Ribbon Campaign. 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.

Visit https://www.redribbon.org/contest/2022winners to view the nineteen (19) winning photos.

2022 Contest Winners

Regional Home Winners:

• Region 1 – Angela Mumford–Cambridge Springs, PA - Cambridge Springs Jr./Sr. High School
• Region 2 – Carolyn Greene– Albany, GA – International Studies Elementary Charter School
• Region 4 – Alicia Alvarado – Armed Forces Europe – Grafenwoehr Elementary School - Dodea
• Region 5 – Yung-Ching Lin – Saratoga, CA -- Saratoga High 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 – Emily Loesch – Sugar Land, TX – Settlers Place Elementary
• Region 5 – Tiffany Farnsworth – Hyrum, Utah – Canyon Elementary School

Home Judges Awards:

• Most Creative – Mustafa Aydin – Greensboro, NC – Triad Math and Science Academy - Elementary
• Most Ambitious – Maria Izzo – Bernardsville, NJ – Bernads High School
• Best Use of Family and Community – Dan Trinh – Monterary Park, CA – Monterey Highlands Elementary School
• Best Use of Theme – Dinah Joy Bustamante – Folsom, California – Sandra J Gallardo Elementary School
• Most Educational – Hai Le – Fountain Valley, CA – Monroe Elementary Language Academy


School Judges Awards:

• Most Creative –Melissa Terlaje – Auburn, Washington – Chinook Elementary School
• Most Ambitious – Allison Kennedy – Newbury Park, CA -- Banyan Elementary School
• Best Use of Family and Community –Darby Scalf – Walton, IN – Lewis Cass Elementary
• Best Use of Theme – Tamara Thornton –Hughson, CA – Fox Road Elementary School
• Most Educational – Perihan Akcan – Greensboro, NC -- Triad Math and Science Academy - Secondary 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 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.

Topics: red ribbon photo contest prevention dea photo contest red ribbon campaign celebrate life live drug free
2 min read

Ask your Members of Congress to Oppose the SAFE Banking Act

By NFP on Nov 30, 2022 9:17:42 AM

CADCA Logo

The Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act is the most recent attempt for Congress to grant marijuana businesses access to the banking system.  It is vital that the SAFE Banking Act is not passed during the lame duck session of Congress. There is an ongoing effort by Congress to pass this legislation, and we are asking that you contact your congressional delegations about opposing this legislation.

BACKGROUND

The SAFE Banking Act will make it easier for marijuana businesses to conduct business and exacerbate the negative consequences of marijuana proliferation, including increased traffic fatalities, youth use rates, ER visits and hospitalizations. Today, states are creating legal cannabis products containing as much as 99.9% THC concentration and marketing these products to children in the form of candies and cookies. The passage of the SAFE Banking Act will allow these operations to continue to expand. Additionally, the SAFE Banking Act will set a precedent to allow other federally illegal industries to gain access to the banking system.

Today’s marijuana products are highly addictive, and the total lack of public health guardrails such as potency caps, packaging and label requirements, health warnings or restrictions on advertising to youth ensures that this bill will exacerbate the negative consequences of marijuana proliferation.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Please send the sample letter below to your Congressional delegation (2 Senators and 1 member of the House of Representatives) raising concerns about the SAFE Banking Act and urging them not to pass this bill in any legislative vehicle during the lame duck session of Congress.

HOW TO DO IT

Click here to send a message to your members of Congress asking them not to pass the SAFE Banking Act during the lame duck session of Congress.

SAMPLE LETTER

Please oppose the passage of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act during the lame duck session of Congress. The bill is fatally flawed and seeks to legitimize marijuana business operations that remain illegal under federal law. Granting marijuana businesses access to the banking system will allow them to make illegal claims about their products, resulting in international drug cartels gaining an even stronger foothold in being able to launder money from other illegal activities.

The negative consequences associated with the growth of the marijuana industry, including increased traffic fatalities, youth use rates, ER visits and hospitalizations would only be further exacerbated by this legislation. Please do not pass the SAFE Banking Act in any legislative vehicle during the lame duck session of Congress.

Ask your Senators to Oppose the SAFE Banking Act

 

2 min read

Red Ribbon Café Podcast Premiere

By NFP on Nov 22, 2022 1:45:05 PM

Red Ribbon Café Podcast Premieres on November 23rd, 2022

November 22, 2022 – Miami, FL – On November 23rd, 2022, National Family Partnership Partner Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership will premiere it’s first episode of the Red Ribbon Café Podcast. This Podcast allows parents and families to hear from official Informed Families staff members and President and CEO, Peggy Sapp on current topics surrounding child development and education.Red Ribbon Cafe Podcast

Each episode of the Podcast will feature individuals speaking about their real-world experiences working with the school system and communities to promote health childhood development and fulfillment. Peggy Sapp, President, and CEO of Informed Families and Volunteer President of National Family Partnership encourages that “this Podcast will allow parents to understand that they play a significant role in why their child doesn’t use drugs. IF will help parents figure out how to achieve success by offering you useful topics and encouraging you to join a Parent Peer Group to continue supporting your child’s full potential.”

 

As Thanksgiving and Christmas Break is around the corner, we hope that families, educators, and children will take fifteen minutes out of their fun-filled day to educate themselves on prevention-based topics, so we can continue helping children make healthy decisions.

Connect with us by using #KnowUsBeforeYouNeedUs to share what topics you want to hear next!

The Red Ribbon Café Podcast will be featured on Miami's Community Newspapers website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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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.

Topics: education prevention red ribbon campaign Red Ribbon Café Podcast
3 min read

National Red Ribbon Kicks-Off with Light Up America

By NFP on Nov 4, 2022 9:32:51 AM

Why Are Buildings and Roads Decked Out in Red?

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October 25th, 2022 – Miami, FL – The National Red Ribbon Campaign Week Kick-Off has started! The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and National Family Partnership will join with communities across the nation in kicking off Red Ribbon Campaign Week, the nation’s oldest and largest drug misuse prevention awareness program, on Sunday, October 23rd. Landmarks across the nation will light red in recognition of the annual event and City Officials from have issued state proclamations in California and Florida encouraging their residents to demonstrate their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. However, what exactly is Red Ribbon Week? Red Ribbon Week is a way for our community to raise awareness and connect with a common goal: to make America drug-free.

During Red Ribbon Campaign Week, NFP encourages communities to light up their local landmarks or buildings in red. This gives the community the opportunity to be vocal and visible by shining a light for voices everywhere to achieve a drug-free community.


“Buildings are Red to send the ‘Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free’ message across America, NFP Invites YOU to join us.” States Peggy Sapp, President and CEO of Informed Families and Volunteer President of National Family Partnership. How can you participate in sending this drug free message to your community? Simple, 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 #LightUpAmericaRed, and #NationalFamilyPartnership.
A complete list of landmarks in the Miami division who are Lightning Up America Red can be found below.

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
City of Hialeah
FTX Arena (Formerly Known as American Airlines Arena)
MDC Freedom Tower
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
SR 836/ Dolphin Expressway
SR 924/ Gratigny Expressway
SR 112/ Airport Expressway
SR 874/ Don Shula Expressway
SR 878/ Snapper Expressway
17 Avenue and the SR 836 (Tolling Gantry)

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Orlando
Amway Spire
Fountain at Lake Eola

5-2Tallahassee
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

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon campaign light up red
3 min read

City of Alexandria Issues Proclamation for Red Ribbon Week

By Laura Plaia, Freelance Reporter of the Zebra Press on Oct 31, 2022 11:58:38 AM

Red Ribbon Week United Us in One Common Goal-Make America Drug-Free

By Laura Plaia, Freelance Reporter of the Zebra Press

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October 31st , 2022 – Miami, FL – At Tuesday night’s City Council meeting at the City of Alexandria, Virginia, the annual alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention awareness campaign known as Red Ribbon Week was officially designated for Alexandria as October 23-31. It is viewed as a perfect means for people and communities to join by taking a visible stand against drugs. This year’s theme is “Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free.”

“Substance use and misuse presents significant health, legal, and social consequences for youth and can hinder personal, professional, and academic success for young people who deserve to grow up happy, healthy, and drug-free,” as stated in the Proclamation. Red Ribbon Week, celebrated nationwide each October, is the largest alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention campaign in the United States.

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Council member Sarah Bagley, read the official proclamation with special attendees alongside: Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt (Interim Superintendent of Alexandria City Public Schools), Fredy Martinez (Substance Abuse Prevention & Intervention Services Coordinator for Alexandria City Public Schools) Chloe Yokitis (Junior at Alexandria City High School), and Emma Beall (SAPCA Coordinator for the City of Alexandria’s Department of Community and Human Services).

“It’s important to provide a space and be intentional about talking about prevention,” said Yokitis

Yokitis is also a Keep It 360 Peer Advocate, a group of Alexandria youth who work closely with the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA), the Alexandria Campaign on Adolescent Pregnancy (ACAP), and the Alexandria Sexual Assault Center to support prevention and outreach efforts.

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Students who reside in the City of Alexandria and are enrolled in Alexandria Public Schools are encouraged to enter the 2022 Red Ribbon Week Poster Contest here as well as explore ideas to celebrate Red Ribbon Week this month. The deadline to enter is November 15th. Winners in each category of elementary, middle, and high school will each receive a $100 gift card and their poster will be featured in Red Ribbon Week 2023. Mayor Justin Wilson took a moment to thank the partnership that works in our community to prevent drug use, stressing that peer advocacy is some of the most effective work, highlighting Yokitis’ initiative on the project.


Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) of Northern Virginia works closely in the community campaign to bring attention to the topic. SCAN is the only region-wide organization focused solely on preventing child abuse and neglect across Northern Virginia. The Fall Gala “The Magic of Childhood” is tomorrow night to raise funds for their mission to help prevent child abuse.
Origin of Red Ribbon Week — According to the RedRibbon.Org website, the campaign began in 1985 in response to the murder of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction cause by drugs in America. The movement has grown ever since then, educating youth, and raising awareness.

The synergistic effect of Red Ribbon Week gives credence to the African proverb adage “It takes a village to raise a child.”

 

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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.

2 min read

U.S. National Guard of 105th Airlift Wing Signs Red Ribbon Week Proclamation

By NFP on Oct 21, 2022 9:22:09 AM

The U.S. National Guard Recognizes Red Ribbon Week with Signed Proclamation

105th Airlift Wing

October 20th, 2022 – Miami, FL –Brig. Gen. Gary Charlton, Commander, 105th Airlift Wing, signed a proclamation today instating October 23 through October 31 as "Red Ribbon Week".

The proclamation states the following:

WHEREAS, the Red Ribbon Campaign is a national effort to commemorate the 1985 murder of Enrique (Kiki) Camerena, a federal narcotics agent, killed by drug traffickers, and to promote public awareness of the effects of drug abuse; and

WHEREAS, the County of Orange, the Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Council of Orange County (ADAC), the 105th Airlift Wing, and the New York National Guard Counterdrug Task Force are working together to lead the Red Ribbon celebration of the Red Ribbon Campaign for a Drug-Free America; and

WHEREAS, Orange County, the ADAC, the 105th Airlift Wing, and the NY National Guard Counterdrug Task Force are putting forth great effort to raise awareness and promote alcohol and drug-free activities for youth; and

WHEREAS, this year’s National campaign theme is to “Celebrate Life, Live Drug Free!” and

WHEREAS, alcohol and drugs affect our health and our lifestyles, and many agencies have joined the Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Council in this campaign.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I, Brigadier General Gary R. Charlton II, Commander, 105th Airlift Wing, do hereby proclaim October 23 through October 31, 2022 as:

“RED RIBBON WEEK”

My hand set forth upon this proclamation in the 105th Airlift Wing, on this date in October 2022, and I commend this observance to all members of the 105th Airlift Wing community.

HONORED THIS TWENTIETH DAY OF OCTOBER, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-TWO
New York National Guard Counterdrug Task Force
The Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Council of Orange County.

 

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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.

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon campaign proclamation U.S. National Guard
1 min read

Miami Dade College to Illuminate Freedom Tower for Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31

By NFP on Oct 21, 2022 9:11:46 AM

Miami, Oct. 18, 2022 – Miami Dade College (MDC) will illuminate its Historic Landmark Freedom Tower red at sunset on Saturday, Oct. 23 through Monday, Oct. 31, to kick-off national Red Ribbon Week®, Oct. 23- 31, in support of Informed Families. FTX Arena (Formally Known as American Airlines Arena) and Brickell World Plaza will also be illuminated in support of the Red Ribbon Campaign®, which is now the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of young people each year.

Red Ribbon Week was created by the National Family Partnership after the death of DEA Agent Kiki Camarena in Mexico in 1985. It is an opportunity to show support for a drug free America and to talk to children about making healthy choices.


About Informed Families
The mission of Informed Families, a non-profit organization founded in 1982, is helping kids grow up safe, healthy and drug free. Informed Families focuses on educating, involving and empowering parents to work together to set boundaries and monitor their children’s behavior to prevent underage drinking, substance abuse and other harmful behaviors. Affiliated with the National Family Partnership, Informed Families is best known for being the Florida Sponsor of the National Red Ribbon Campaign. Informed Families also boasts multiple school and community-based prevention programs targeting youth, parents and communities. For more information on Informed Families and how to get Informed Families programs into your school, please visit www.informedfamilies.org, or call 305-856-4886.

WHAT: Freedom Tower Goes Red to Kick-Off Red Ribbon Week

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 23 through Monday, Oct. 31., at sunset

WHERE: Freedom Tower, 600 Biscayne Blvd.


MDC Media Contacts: Irene Muñoz, interim director of communications, 305-237-3030, imunoz@mdc.edu; Sue Arrowsmith, director of media relations, 305-237-3710, sarrowsm@mdc.edu; Allison Horton, 305-237-3359, ahorton2@mdc.edu; or Norma Ardila, 305-237-3607, nardila@mdc.edu.

This and other MDC releases are available on the web at www.mdc.edu.

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Topics: red ribbon week
2 min read

New Hampshire's First Congressional District, Congressman Chris Pappas Recognizes Red Ribbon Week

By NFP on Oct 19, 2022 3:00:50 PM

Red Ribbon Week is Recognized in the State of New Hampshire House

640px-Chris_Pappas,_official_portrait,_116th_Congress
 

October 19th, 2022 – Miami, FL – On behalf of National Family Partnership, we would like to thank Congressman Chris Pappas and New Hampshire First Congressional District Constituents for recognizing Red Ribbon Week. Below you will find an excerpt of Congressman Chris Pappas addressing the House on October 16th, 2022.

Congressman Chris Pappas: Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Red Ribbon Week. In 1988, the National Family Partnership dedicated the week of October 23-31 to raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and the harm that drug trafficking brings to our communities. For the past 34 years the NFP has continued their work, raising awareness for families and schools in neighborhoods across New Hampshire.

For all too many New Hampshire families--including mine--the nation's drug crisis is deeply personal. Many of us have lost neighbors, friends, and loved ones to overdoses and the harmful effects of drug use in recent years. We have learned that the pain of addiction hurts not just one member of our community, but us all. As the representative for New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I remain firmly committed to improving the drug-detection capabilities of our law enforcement officials and will not stop calling for the resources to help those struggling with addiction to lead productive, healthy lifestyles. This is why I was proud to introduce the Dark Web Interdiction Act of 2022 as well as the National ACERT Grant Program Authorization Act. These bills work to strengthen our law enforcement's ability to go after those trafficking drugs on the dark web, as well as providing funding for law enforcement and service agencies to support children who have experienced a traumatic event, like witnessing a drug overdose by a loved one, to support their wellbeing and future success in life.

The mission of Red Ribbon Week to bring these issues into the light and to educate our youth about the dangers of drugs is critical to begin healing our state and our country. I am honored to work with the many New Hampshire partners taking on this challenge, including our healthcare and recovery workers, Drug Free Communities, First Responders, and law enforcement from the local state and federal level including the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. Each partner carries on the mission to stop illicit substances from harming our communities, while never giving up hope for those in recovery.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank the National Family Partnership and the Drug Enforcement Agency for your work on this issue and hope my fellow Granite Staters will join me in recognizing the 2022 National Red Ribbon Week.


###

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.

Topics: red ribbon week drug prevention national family partnership Congressman Chris Pappas
2 min read

Here Are Ways YOU Can Get Involved During Red Ribbon Week

By NFP on Oct 18, 2022 1:48:12 PM

Red Ribbon Week is Here, How Will You Get Involved?

Red Ribbon Week Theme 2022_NFP-1


October 18th, 2022 – Miami, FL –Spooky Season is October 31st, BUT Red Ribbon Week starts October 23rd! So put on your best costume (preferably something in red!) and learn how you can “Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free” Red Ribbon Week.

NFP is laser focused on bringing drug awareness and visibility to communities and youth by sponsoring the annual National Red Ribbon Campaign™. Since its beginning in 1985, the Red Ribbon has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. In response to the murder of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena, angered parents, and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction cause by drugs in America. In 1988, NFP sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Celebration. Today, the Red Ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities.


Here are ways you can get involved during the 2022 Red Ribbon Week:

  • Enter the 12th Annual 2022 Red Ribbon Photo Contest for a chance to win $1000 for K-12 School and an iPad! You can submit your creative photo at redribbon.org/contest.
  • Sponsor a Classroom, Grade, or School by purchasing a bundle of this year’s favorite items. You can choose a sponsorship package at nfp.org/store.
  • Even though Halloween is coming up! Get dressed in your best costume and put on your creative hats to enter the 2023 Red Ribbon Theme Contest for a chance to win $500 in Red Ribbon Merchandise! Submissions are due by December 4th, 2022, via email at RedRibbon@NFP.org.
  • During Red Ribbon Week, October 23rd-31st, 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. 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 #DEARedRibbon, #LightUpAmericaRed, and #NationalFamilyPartnership.

###

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.

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest drug prevention
2 min read

Light Up AMERICA in Red

By NFP on Oct 10, 2022 10:56:00 AM

Illuminating Florida in Red to Support Drug-Free Prevention

Kentucky Big Four Bridge

September 23, 2022 – Miami, FL – Why do some individuals become addicted to drug misuse while others don't? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), research on family studies that include identical twins, fraternal twins, adoptees, and siblings suggest that as much as half of a person's risk of becoming addicted to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs depends on his or her genetic makeup and the other half on external factors. When twins are born with a genetic predisposition to substance abuse, and one is placed in a family that uses drugs and the other is placed in an environment that doesn’t use drugs. It is significantly more likely that the twin exposed to the first environment will seek the use of drugs. What does this mean. Environment trumps hereditary. Our surroundings can greatly affect an individual’s likelihood of drug use and addiction. Fascinating, isn’t it? By sending healthy messages to the community, you are making a difference in their health and future. Research has shown that school health programs can reduce the prevalence of health risk behaviors among adolescents and youth and have a positive effect on academic performance.

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. A complete list of landmarks in the Miami division who are Lightning Up America 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.

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 #DEARedRibbon , #LightUpAmericaRed, and #NationalFamilyPartnership. 

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
City of Hialeah
FTX Arena (Formerly Known as American Airlines Arena)
MDC Freedom Tower
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
SR 836/ Dolphin Expressway
SR 924/ Gratigny Expressway
SR 112/ Airport Expressway
SR 874/ Don Shula Expressway
SR 878/ Snapper Expressway
17 Avenue and the SR 836 (Tolling Gantry)

Orlando

Amway Spire
Fountain at Lake Eola

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.

Topics: red ribbon week recognition red ribbon campaign
1 min read

You're invited to DEA's Virtual Red Ribbon Rally, October 20th

By NFP on Oct 5, 2022 1:00:00 PM

 

Red Ribbon Logo Final-illustrated badgeRESCHEDULED- The Drug Enforcement Administration will hold its annual National Red Ribbon Rally virtually this year. Our virtual rally will premiere on https://www.dea.gov on October 20, 2022, at 12:00pm PST and be available to share throughout the month of October.

This year’s Red Ribbon Rally features voices from our community and special guests who represent diverse experiences and perspectives on drug prevention and Red Ribbon activism, including youth performances that celebrate living drug-free. The DEA will recognize the 2021 Red Ribbon Photo Contest Winners co-sponsored by National Family Partnership. In addition, we will recognize the elementary, middle, and high school winners of the DEA Red Ribbon Visual Arts Contest, and announce the community groups selected to receive DEA’s 2022 Community Drug Prevention Award.

During Red Ribbon Week, young people in communities and schools across the nation pledge to live drug-free by wearing red ribbons and participating in anti-drug events. Red Ribbon Week is also a time to pay tribute to DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, whose tragic murder led to the creation of the Red Ribbon Campaign. He is the man and hero behind the Red Ribbon Campaign. Today, millions of Americans all over the United States continue to wear red ribbons to symbolize their support for a united, drug-free nation.

Tickets are not required. No need to RSVP.
Spread the word. Everyone is invited.
Click the link below to download the invitation:
https://admin.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/2022-Red-Ribbon-Rally-Invite-2.pdf
Any questions regarding the virtual rally please email: community.outreach@usdoj.gov.

For more information and resources for Red Ribbon Week please visit: https://www.dea.gov/redribbon

dea_blog

 

Topics: red ribbon dea drug prevention red ribbon activities
1 min read

Teen Vaping and Marijuana Use Rising, While Other Substance Use Declines: Study

By NFP on Oct 5, 2022 9:45:00 AM

vaping

The rate of U.S. teen vaping and marijuana use is on the rise, while their use of other substances including alcohol and cigarettes is declining, according to a new study.

Researchers tracking substance use trends among U.S. teens over the past 30 years found substance use has generally declined, except for overall marijuana use and vaping nicotine and marijuana, HealthDay reports.

The percentage of U.S. teens who said they had vaped nicotine in the past month increased from 7% to 17% between 2017 and 2019, the study found. Marijuana vaping rose from just over 3% to almost 10% during that time.

Rates of substance use were highest among teens who had a job or who spent a lot of time with friends, without adults around, the study found. Substance use was least likely to occur among teens who did not spend a lot of time around friends or who took part in sports or other structured activities.

“Years of research show that when young people are engaged in activities they enjoy and feel are meaningful, they have less reason to turn to substance use to soothe their boredom or seek sensation,” said Linda Richter, vice president of prevention research and analysis for Partnership to End Addiction, who was not involved in the study.

Article Source Link

Topics: drug trends prevention vaping red ribbon campaign
1 min read

Two Potent Illicit Substances are Increasing the Risk of Overdoses

By NFP on Sep 26, 2022 9:54:54 AM

_synthetic opioid

Two potent substances are increasingly being linked to overdoses, NBC News reports. One is a group of synthetic opioids called nitazenes, and the other is an animal tranquilizer called xylazine.

Nitazenes can be up to 10 times stronger than fentanyl, the article notes. Last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a report that showed a fourfold increase in deadly overdoses linked to nitazenes in Tennessee in the last two years. No nitazene-related deaths were documented in the state in 2019. The following year, 10 such deaths were reported, and 42 were reported in 2021.

“Naloxone has been effective in reversing nitazene-involved overdoses, but multiple doses might be needed,” the CDC report said. The researchers noted, “Given their potency, raising awareness about nitazenes and implementing strategies to reduce harm through increased testing, surveillance, and linkage to treatment for substance use disorders are of vital importance.”

Addiction experts told NBC News that traces of the non-opioid animal tranquilizer xylazine is also showing up in fentanyl samples. Xylazine is often referred to as “tranq” or “tranq dope,” and can cause people to slip into a state of unconsciousness for hours.

Article Source Link

Topics: drug trends prescription drug abuse prevention red ribbon campaign
3 min read

The 12th Annual National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest Kicks Off October 1, 2022

By NFP on Sep 23, 2022 10:00:00 AM

Glades Middle School - Region 2-3

 

Contest Submissions Accepted through November 1st


September 23, 2022 – Miami, FL –Beginning October 1st, students, families, and schools across America are invited to participate in the 12th Annual National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest aimed at raising visibility to live drug-free by being creative. The contest, co-sponsored by the National Family Partnership (NFP) and 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 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, Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free. ™ 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.

Red Ribbon Week Theme 2022_NFP-1
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 Home, Best Use of Family, Best Use of Theme, Best Virtual Photo, Most Educational, Most Creative School or Virtual School, Best Use of School or Virtual School, Best Use of Theme, Most Ambitious 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 DEA has been a longtime co-sponsor of the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest, which is now in its twelfth year. Keeping communities Drug-Free is a mission both the DEA and NFP have been laser focused on shared for many years. NFP hopes this fun and interactive photo contest will bring awareness about living Drug-Free to communities across the country.

“Each year, the National Family Partnership encourages the joy of living a Drug-Free life,” said Peggy Sapp, Volunteer President of National Family Partnership and President and CEO of Informed Families. “The Community’s involvement is important to helping a person’s choose to live drug free."

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 2nd. 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

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest prevention dea red ribbon activities celebrate life live drug free
1 min read

Red Ribbon Week PSA Contest is back!

By NFP on Sep 16, 2022 3:57:16 PM

VIDEO

Learn how to make a winning video during SAMHSA and DEA Twitter chat

As part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Red Ribbon Week campaign, DEA and SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention are co-sponsoring the annual Campus Video PSA Contest! The contest is designed to support colleges and universities in promoting the importance of preventing alcohol and drug misuse among college students.

Interested in competing? Join SAMHSA, the DEA’s Campus Drug Prevention initiative, and the larger prevention community for a Twitter chat on Wednesday, September 21, at 2 p.m. ET. During the chat, SAMHSA will share video creation tools, resources, and inspiration to help you create the very best 30- to 60-second video PSA showcasing your campus’s commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle!

This year DEA announced that they will be awarding prizes to first, second, and third place-winning entries to support campus prevention efforts.

  • First place will receive $5,000 and a trip for two to NASPA’s Strategies Conference (January 18-21, 2023, in Kansas City, Missouri).
  • Second place will receive $3,000.
  • Third place will receive $1,000.

Follow #AskDEACampus, @SAMHSAgov, and @DEAHQ on Twitter to participate in the conversation. You can learn more about the PSA contest by visiting www.campusdrugprevention.gov/psacontest.

Did you know? Red Ribbon Week was created to honor DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena after he was murdered by drug traffickers in 1985. The week has now become an annual event highlighting the importance of preventing drug misuse in our nation’s schools and communities. Each year from October 23–31, organizations across the U.S. show their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle by wearing or displaying the Red Ribbon.

 

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week dea
3 min read

2022 RED RIBBON SOCIAL MEDIA TOOLS

By NFP on Sep 16, 2022 10:57:06 AM

Social-Media

Spread the Red Ribbon message online. Use our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram posts!

Virtual Red Ribbon Campaign Tools 

Share your support for Red Ribbon Week with your friends and followers! Together, we can send a clear message across America. All you have to do to participate is tweet, post on Facebook and Instagram with any or all of the suggested language below to spread the word about Red Ribbon Week: See the examples below, copy the language you want to use on your blog or social networking site and start spreading the message! We also encourage you to take a photo of your favorite drug-free activities and post on Instagram with #RedRibbonWeek and #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree.

Sample Facebook Posts

  • Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free.TM – Celebrate Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31).
  • It’s Red Ribbon Week and I am taking a stand against drugs. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • Today, I’m honoring Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who died while fighting substance abuse. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week 2022. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • Today, I'm joining teens, parents, teachers, and other citizens across America in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31), the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation.
  • Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week. Our children have the right to grow up drug free – and we have the responsibility to make that happen. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • I’m entering the Red Ribbon Photo Contest to win an iPad and $1,000 for my school. You can enter too at www.redribbon.org/contest.
  • I’m a teacher who believes in a drug free future for my students. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31)
  • I’m a parent who believes in a drug free future for my children. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31).

Sample Tweets

  • Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free.TM – Celebrate #RedRibbonWeek (October 23-31).
  • It’s Red Ribbon Week® and I am taking a stand against drugs. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge  #RedRibbonWeek #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree
  • Today, I’m honoring Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who died while fighting substance abuse. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #RedRibbonWeek
  • Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week®. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree
  • I’m entering the Red Ribbon Photo Contest to win an iPad and $1,000 for my school. You can enter too at www.redribbon.org #RedRibbonWeek
  • I’m a teacher who believes in a drug free future for my students. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week® (October 23-31). #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree
  • I’m a parent who believes in a drug free future for my children. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week® (October 23-31). #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree

Sample Instagram Posts

  • Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free.TM – Celebrate #RedRibbonWeek (October 23-31)
  • Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free.TM #RedRibbonWeek
  •  It’s Red Ribbon Week® and I am taking a stand against drugs. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge #RedRibbonWeek #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFre
  • Today, I’m honoring Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who died while fighting substance abuse. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #RedRibbonWeek
  • Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week®. #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree #RedRibbonWeek
  • Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree #RedRibbonWeek
  •  I’m entering the Red Ribbon Photo Contest to win an iPad and $1,000 for my school. You can enter too at www.redribbon.org #RedRibbonWeek #CelebrateLifeLiveDrugFree

Landmarks Light up in RED for Red Ribbon Week - October 23rd-31st

By NFP on Sep 8, 2022 12:00:00 PM

Freedom Tower Miami FL

Last year, the Freedom Tower, FTX Arena, Miami Tower, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and other landmarks in Florida illuminated their building red in support of a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon Campaign® is now the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of young people during Red Ribbon Week®, October 23 – October 31 each year. It is a simple and brilliant way for people and communities to unite and take a visible stand against drugs.

Join us in increasing awareness and support for drug-free prevention in America and our youth.

Download Flyer

 

Topics: red ribbon week prevention drug free red ribbon campaign celebrate life live drug free
1 min read

Red Ribbon Week is Just Around the Corner!

By Peggy B. Sapp, President & CEO on Sep 7, 2022 9:18:49 AM

RRW Corner blog (600 × 350 px)

Red Ribbon Week is just around the corner, October 23rd-31st!

NFP is dedicated to supporting your efforts to bring visibility to our Drug Free Message through the Red Ribbon Campaign. Lots of companies sell RED RIBBON WEEK products but how many of those companies give back to the Red Ribbon Campaign and to all our communities? Only ONE NIMCO, Inc.

Through NFP’s annual Red Ribbon Theme Contest held every fall with winners announced at CADCA, we are linking with thousands of schools and children allowing them and you to tell us the RR Theme. Through NFP’s DEA Photo Contest we give away $25,000 to schools across America. It’s not about the ribbon it is about the meaning of the ribbon, we ask you to help network and spread the word in your school, home, business, military base, faith-based fellowship, club, etc. We’re only as strong as our weakest link. "Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free." says it all. Join us.

NIMCO, Inc. a registered authorized vendor through GSA for all government agencies and granted programs.

Click the link to view NIMCO, Inc online 2022 Red Ribbon Catalog

View Catalog

If you are interested in actively making a difference to keep America healthy and drug-free. Contact Elizabeth Golshteyn at egolshteyn@informedfamilies.org to become an Affiliate with National Family Partnership. By becoming an Affiliate and paying an annual membership fee, you get a 10% NIMCO discount (one-use per customer) to use the 2022 Red Ribbon Theme products to support drug-free prevention.

Thank you for all your help and support over these 40 years. I am truly grateful.


Sincerely,

Peggy Sapp
Volunteer President, National Family Partnership
President and CEO, Informed Families

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest prevention drug prevention
2 min read

DEA Warns of Brightly-Colored Fentanyl Used to Target Young Americans

By NFP on Aug 31, 2022 10:13:58 AM

 
Rainbow fentanyl m30
 

WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration is advising the public of an alarming emerging trend of colorful fentanyl available across the United States.  In August 2022, DEA and our law enforcement partners seized brightly-colored fentanyl and fentanyl pills in 18 states.  Dubbed “rainbow fentanyl” in the media, this trend appears to be a new method used by drug cartels to sell highly addictive and potentially deadly fentanyl made to look like candy to children and young people.

“Rainbow fentanyl—fentanyl pills and powder that come in a variety of bright colors, shapes, and sizes—is a deliberate effort by drug traffickers to drive addiction amongst kids and young adults,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “The men and women of the DEA are relentlessly working to stop the trafficking of rainbow fentanyl and defeat the Mexican drug cartels that are responsible for the vast majority of the fentanyl that is being trafficked in the United States.”

Brightly-colored fentanyl is being seized in multiple forms, including pills, powder, and blocks that resembles sidewalk chalk. Despite claims that certain colors may be more potent than others, there is no indication through DEA’s laboratory testing that this is the case.  Every color, shape, and size of fentanyl should be considered extremely dangerous.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.  Just two milligrams of fentanyl, which is equal to 10-15 grains of table salt, is considered a lethal dose.  Without laboratory testing, there is no way to know how much fentanyl is concentrated in a pill or powder. 

Fentanyl remains the deadliest drug threat facing this country.  According to the CDC, 107,622 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2021, with 66 percent of those deaths related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.  Drug poisonings are the leading killer of Americans between the ages of 18 and 45.  Fentanyl available in the United States is primarily supplied by two criminal drug networks, the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

In September 2021, DEA launched the One Pill Can Kill Public Awareness Campaign to educate Americans about the dangers of fake pills.  Additional resources for parents and the community can be found on DEA's Fentanyl Awareness page.

If you encounter fentanyl in any form, do not handle it and call 911 immediately.

###

August 30, 2022
Contact: Media Relations
Phone Number: (571) 776-2508

Source Link

Topics: drug trends dea drug prevention drug use fentanyl
1 min read

Building Helping Communities

By NFP on Aug 22, 2022 1:51:58 PM

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On August 19th, 2022, over 275 community leaders join Miami Community Newspapers to welcome U.S. Senator Marco Rubio at Evelyn Greer Park. National Family Partnership joined the recent luncheon alongside State Senator Ileana Garcia and Miami-Dade School Board Member, District 9, Luisa Santos. Senator Garcia is committed to develop funding and accessible resources for youth prevention. Recently, Senator Garcia secured $175,000 in state funding that will directly assist its “Foster Care to Independent Living” Program.

Peggy Sapp, President, and CEO of Informed Families and Volunteer President of National Family Partnership took the opportunity to speak in front of Senator Rubio.  “We need to advocate for 50% of all the Opioid Dollars coming down to states and communities to be allotted to prevention programs in schools, families and communities, stated Ms. Sapp. The 2022 Red Ribbon Theme is “Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free”, a nationwide campaign advocating for a drug-free environment and where hundreds of schools and families submit their photo of what it means to live drug-free. NFP’s mission is helping children reach their full potential. 

Thank you to the Miami Community News for hosting the Marco Rubio Luncheon and who continue to encourage future generations in America to live a healthy and drug-free lifestyle.

If you are interested in actively making a difference to keep America healthy and drug-free. Please reach out to Elizabeth Golshteyn at egolshteyn@informedfamilies.org to become an Affiliate with National Family Partnership, Red Ribbon, and/or Lock Your Meds.

Topics: red ribbon week drug free drug prevention national family partnership
1 min read

National Family Partnership Survey Winner

By NFP on Aug 17, 2022 8:47:42 AM

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National Family Partnership recently held a survey in which recipients were asked how we could better serve their families.  How would you like to hear from us? Did you prefer tips, a newsletter or messaging? These were just some of the questions we asked. We are here to support and effectively serve our communities and we need YOUR HELP to make our community better and safer!

Those who participated were also placed in a random drawing for a $50 Gift Card to Publix Super Market. Our lucky winner that was randomly chosen was Rosalie Roybal of Lynwood Unified School District in Lynwood, California. Congratulations to Rosalie!

Topics: red ribbon prevention contest nfp
1 min read

Get fast, confidential help with the Florida Poison Control Helpline

By NFP on Aug 10, 2022 11:27:37 AM

Logo_redOLYou’ve cleaned out the medicine cabinet and talked with your teen about avoiding alcohol and drugs, but despite your best efforts, your kid takes something they shouldn’t have. What now?  Fortunately, there’s an easy answer. The same poison control center that helped with your toddler can also help with your tween or teen. 

In 2020, about 14% of calls to poison control centers were about youth aged 6-19. In older teens, many calls are about intentional misuse, and even self-harm. Get fast, confidential help  for any potential poisoning by calling 1-800-222-1222. The doctors, nurses and pharmacists at your poison center will calmly walk you through what to do to protect your child from serious, or even fatal, poisoning. To find your local poison center, visit AAPCC.org, or call 1-800-222-1222 any time, 24/7.

Topics: red ribbon nfp
1 min read

Congratulations to both Abbigail Waters and Joel Mesa, the 2022 Enrique Camarena RED RIBBON Award Recipients

By NFP on Mar 18, 2022 2:13:25 PM

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Congratulations to both Abbigail Waters (left) and Joel Mesa (right), this year’s Enrique Camarena Red Ribbon Award recipients. This annual award recognizes and honors those who make significant contributions to the field of drug prevention.

Abbigail Waters is the youngest member of the Young Marines Alumni Association. Young Marines and volunteers make a commitment to make a difference personally as well as within their communities. Abbigail committed to Young Marines as a youth member in 2014. For 7 years, she not only learned the importance of teamwork, leadership, discipline, and the importance of living a healthy, drug-free lifestyle personally, but she also set the example for others to emulate. During her time in the program, Abbigail has completed over 200 hours of Drug Demand Reduction. Many of those hours were committed to making a difference in her community by spreading awareness during Red Ribbon Week, working with the Preventing Alcohol and Risk Related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y) Program of the University of Colorado Hospital and Colorado State Patrol, leading presentations within her community, and creating new prevention projects. Beyond her prevention work, Abbigail Waters has committed nearly 1,500 community service hours to many other veteran’s service projects, Toys for Tots, Wreaths Across America, and color guards. This does not include the countless hours that she has spent developing her peers and later mentoring our youth as an alumnus.

Joel Mesa was a Youth Crime Watch Administrator/School Coordinator of Citizens’ Crime Watch of Miami-Dade County. He is certified as a Florida Crime Prevention Practitioner by the Office of the Attorney General. Joel administers the youth crime watch program of Citizens’ Crime Watch of Miami-Dade County. He has conducted over 2,000 youth crime prevention presentations on numerous safety topics to over 200,000 students during the last 23 years. He has trained principals, teachers, counselors, students, security monitors, and school resource officers on implementing youth crime watch programs in Miami-Dade County schools.

 

 

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week
1 min read

Red Ribbon Week 2021 Photo Contest Winners

By NFP on Dec 3, 2021 8:25:38 AM

The results are in! The National Family Partnership is proud to announce the 20 winners of the 11th Annual National Red Ribbon Week® Photo Contest. The winning photos were among hundreds of entries received and uploaded to RedRibbon.org. Ten winners received the most votes in their designated regions, and ten winners were chosen from a list of categories that included: Most Creative, Most Ambitious, Best Use of Theme, Best Use of Family and Community, Most Educational, and Best Use of School and Community. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who participated. We hope you had as much fun taking the photos as much as we did viewing them. Click here to view the winners.

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Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest

The Red Ribbon Theme Is Copyright Protected

By NFP on Sep 1, 2021 3:19:03 PM

As a reminder, Red Ribbon themes are owned by The National Family Partnership and are protected under US copyright and trademark law. While we encourage teachers, educators and community partners to share the theme, we’d like to remind you that sharing and reprinting the theme logo should be for informational and educational purposes only and not used for profit. Theme materials cannot be altered, distributed or sold without our permission. If you are interested in producing Red Ribbon merchandise, please contact the National Family Partnership at info@nfp.org for information.

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon theme

A Tribute in Honor of Teacher Appreciation Week

By NFP on May 3, 2021 11:05:21 AM

“I’d like to recognize Geniel Moon, a teacher at Murrieta Valley High School in Murrieta, California. Geniel has given selfishly over the past year during this pandemic. She has delivered over 500 items to various students in our school community. These items included T-shirts and  special treat bags to celebrate kids’ accomplishments. Not only did she continue to let her students know she cared, she also continued to do things for rest of the staff, including giving welcome back gifts and lunches. Geniel never stopped fighting for our students to have some normalcy. We are lucky to have a teacher such as Geniel Moon who truly cares about our school culture and our staff. “

~Cindy Muzic

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week teacher appreciation week
1 min read

Congratulations to J. Keagan Miller, the 2021 Enrique Camarena RED RIBBON Award Recipient

By NFP on Feb 1, 2021 12:57:46 PM

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Congratulations to J. Keagan Miller, this year’s Enrique Camarena Red Ribbon Award recipient. This annual award recognizes and honors those who make significant contributions to the field of drug prevention.

A current Unit Commander for the Miami Valley Young Marines of Ohio, Keagan has worked with the program for more than fifteen years. “I was surprised and very honored to even be considered for such a prestigious award,” he said. Kaylyn Lonergan who is the Drug Demand Reduction Coordinator for the organization nominated Keagan.

Keagan has enhanced the drug prevention platform by completing nearly 500 Drug Demand Reduction education hours, which he has used to amplify the Young Marines’ vigorous DDR efforts. His unit is a member of the Montgomery County Drug Free Coalition, which regularly collaborates with the Young Marines to enhance drug prevention efforts. Additionally, he and the Young Marines work with the Families of Addicts, a local group focused on recovery.

Keagan has spearheaded the development of drug prevention education videos that are used throughout the Young Marines’ organization. He has motivated his youth members to lead virtual classes, and has developed and hosted a nationwide virtual Healthy Drug-Free Lifestyle Challenge.

The Miami Valley Young Marines was founded in 1998 as the Dayton Young Marines. The organization promotes the mental, moral, and physical development of its members and focuses on teaching the values of leadership, teamwork, and self-discipline, so its members can live and promote a healthy, Drug-Free lifestyle. Under his leadership, the Miami Valley Young Marines has been recognized twice by the Department of Defense having received the Fulcrum Shield Award for excellence in youth anti-drug programs.

When not working with Young Marines, Keagan enjoys spending time with his wife Tina and their three kids, Ian, Kira, and Owen.

“There are many ways to make yourself happy in life. Drugs shouldn't be one of them,” he said. “Surround yourself with good people and good things happen.”

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week
1 min read

Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest Winners

By NFP on Dec 2, 2020 9:46:41 AM

The results are in! The National Family Partnership is proud to announce the 20 winners of the 10th Annual National Red Ribbon Week® Photo Contest. The winning photos were among hundreds of entries received and uploaded to RedRibbon.org. Ten winners received the most votes in their designated regions, and ten winners were chosen from a list of categories that included: Most Creative, Best Use of Theme, Best Virtual Photo, Most Educational, Most Ambitious, Best Use of Family, Best Use of School or Virtual School, and Most Creative School or Virtual School.  Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who participated. We hope you had as much fun taking the photos as much as we did viewing them. Click here to view the winners.

Topics: red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest
1 min read

New Drug Free USA Forever Stamp Unveiled

By NFP on Nov 4, 2020 11:40:57 AM

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Last week, Peggy Sapp, President of the National Family Partnership spoke at the unveiling of the new Drug Free USA Forever Stamp.  Last year, Mrs. Sapp and the DEA submitted a joint letter to the U.S Postal Service's Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee to propose a stamp to raise national awareness about the dangers of drug misuse. On October 27, Mrs. Sapp was invited as an honorary guest for the Drug Free USA dedication ceremony in Washington, D.C., where she led the pledge and revealed the new stamp alongside DEA Acting Administrator, Timothy J. Shea, Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, and Miss America 2020, Camille Schrier.. Click here to view the ceremony. Click here to purchase the Drug Free USA Stamp.

Topics: red ribbon drug free drug free usa forever stamp

Driving Drug-Free

By NFP on Oct 27, 2020 2:03:35 PM

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Unimpaired driving is one of the golden rules of safe driving.  Help us keep teens safe by sharing these materials that offer tips on how they can stay safe in uncomfortable situations.  Click here:  https://flteensafedriver.org/impaired-driving-prevention-materials/

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week drug free

DIY Pumpkin Painting Project

By NFP on Oct 23, 2020 8:54:28 AM

Get in the Halloween spirit and create your own Pumpkin Painting Party! Use this year's theme, Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free.™ as inspiration. Think outside the box and let your imagination run wild while using the suggested supplies below. This fun and simple project can be done at home or at school. All supplies are relatively inexpensive and can be found at any local dollar or arts and crafts store.

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1 min read

Kaiserslautern Middle School Celebrates Red Ribbon Week in Germany

By NFP on Oct 19, 2020 11:20:33 AM

Have you heard of Kaiserslautern Middle School (KMS)? KMS is a federally operated school managed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), which is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and managing pre-kindergarten through 12th grade educational programs on behalf of the United States Department of Defense (DoD). Over the last few years, KMS, which is located in Kaiserslautern, Germany, has planned and participated in various Red Ribbon Week activities.

This year, KMS counselors and PTSA members have joined forces to create a host of fun and educational activities for their students, including a poster art project featuring this year’s Red Ribbon Theme, Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free.™ Samples of their creative artwork are currently on display in the commissary, post office, café, and community bank, all of which are located on the Vogelweh Military Base in Germany.

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“Having a serious conversation with this age group can make a difference,” said Susan Sondermann, current KMS PTSA President. “We want our students, teachers and parents talking to each other about the risks and the realities related to drugs and alcohol which is especially important in the military community,” she adds. “Military kids go through so much from family separations due to deployments, to multiple moves. It’s not easy.”

As part of their extended Red Ribbon Week celebrations, local school administrators will be featured on the Armed Forces Network (AFN) Radio to discuss the importance of drug and alcohol prevention this month. The KMS PTSA is also sponsoring a writing competition and hosting a Red Ribbon Spirit Week which will highlight the following: "Don't Get Tied Up in Drugs,” "Team Up Against Drugs and Violence" and "Dreaming of a Drug-Free World."  KMS will also be participating in the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest, which is open to legal residents of the United States.

“Past research has shown that the hardships military kids face can lead to an increased risk when it comes to drug and alcohol use, said Sondermann.” We are passionate about Red Ribbon Week because of the message it sends.   We want the best for our kids.  We want to see them be happy. We already know they are brave, and above all we want to see them be drug free!”

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week drug prevention 2020 red ribbon theme did you know?

Natural High’s Ask the Expert

By NFP on Oct 13, 2020 9:07:55 AM

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In celebration of Red Ribbon Week, Natural High will be hosting a special Q&A with Psychologist and Comedian Matt Bellace to help us better understand substance abuse and the importance of living naturally high. Click here to register: https://557v5qk2.pages.infusionsoft.net/

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week natural high

Protective Factors

By NFP on Oct 8, 2020 9:00:00 AM

Teenagers are often faced with many different kinds of temptations as they become young adults. Vaping, smoking and alcohol are just a few common examples of substances that young people are challenged to try. Click on the link below for tips from the Drug Free America Foundation on how teens can protect themselves from making poor life choices when placed in uncomfortable situations.

https://www.dfaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Protective-Factors-for-Youth.pdf

Topics: red ribbon drug prevention

News about the 2020 National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest

By NFP on Oct 7, 2020 1:03:34 PM

You may already be aware that each year schools and families across the country join the drug-free movement by participating in the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest. Did you also know that legal residents in any of the United States territories: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, and on military bases abroad are eligible to participate? Each Photo Contest winner will be granted $1,000 for the school of their choice to be used for drug prevention, and an iPad for themselves, so don’t wait! Gather your teams, put your thinking caps on, and get creative!  We look forward to seeing your fantastic photos. Contest runs through November 1. Visit our contest page for details.

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon photo contest

Red Ribbon Word Search

By NFP on Sep 28, 2020 7:54:41 AM

Print out this Red Ribbon Word Search and see how many words you can find. 
Download the Red Ribbon Word Search.

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon activities red ribbon fridays
1 min read

Did You Know?

By NFP on Sep 18, 2020 8:39:10 AM

DEASeal-colorDid you know the Drug Enforcement Administration, also known as the DEA, is responsible for enforcing controlled substances, laws and regulations in the United States? The DEA investigates and prosecutes individuals who grow, manufacture, or distribute drugs. As the nation’s largest drug prevention effort, the Red Ribbon Campaign and the DEA have worked alongside each other, hosting numerous awareness activities to ensure that deaths like Kiki’s do not happen in vain. The DEA has been a longtime co-sponsor of the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest, which is now in its tenth year. Keeping communities Drug-Free is a mission both organizations have shared for many years and we believe will share for many more to come. 

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week red ribbon photo contest did you know?
1 min read

D.I.Y T-Shirt Project

By NFP on Sep 18, 2020 8:27:11 AM

Take a short break from school or virtual school and create your own Tie Dye shirt for Red Ribbon Week. Use a marker and write your drug-free pledge on the front (i.e., “I am drug free”).

Supplies you will need:

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Follow the instructions in this short video:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/8796161761585820/

Don’t forget to show off your awesome creation and tag us on Social Media!
Facebook & Twitter: @RedRibbonWeek and Instagram: @RedRibbonCampaign

 

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon week red ribbon activities red ribbon fridays
1 min read

Longtime Red Ribbon Campaign Supporter Retires

By NFP on Sep 8, 2020 3:10:05 PM

thumbnail_image002“Everyone has a role in prevention,” says Marcie Seidel. A drug prevention leader in Ohio for many years, Marcie recently retired from her position as Executive Director of Prevention Action Alliance. Years before, she served as former chief of staff for Hope Taft, Ohio’s former first lady. In 1987, Mrs. Taft started Prevention Action Alliance with a group of parents in order to raise awareness about the dangers of misusing drugs and alcohol. This connection led Marcie to the organization where she assumed the mantle for more than 13 years. “It was an aligning of the stars,” she said. Indeed it was. Marcie’s career eventually led her to meet our very own Peggy Sapp, and they have been partners in prevention ever since. NFP is lucky to have many allies in the state of Ohio who are big supporters of the Red Ribbon Campaign. Marcie credits Ohio’s schools and their National Guard as natural partners. An added bonus for us is that this year our new Red Ribbon Campaign theme, Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free. ™ , was created by an Ohioan, Tricia Nelson, a Cincinnati school teacher. “Collaborations are valuable,” Marcie says. “I believe the Red Ribbon campaign is successful in part due to alliances.” And although she has retired, she contends “Prevention is a way of living and I intend to stay connected.” We wish you an amazing retirement Marcie. 

Topics: red ribbon

Red Ribbon Themed Merchandise

By NFP on Aug 28, 2020 8:41:26 AM

22310_Hand-SanitizerLooking for Red Ribbon Themed Merchandise? Look no further! Check out these high-quality products from NIMCO. Visit NIMCO’s website to purchase merchandise such as Red Ribbon Themed wrist bands, Pop-up phone grippers, T-shirts, water bottles and more. Visit www.NimcoInc.com and help us spread the word!

 

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon theme
1 min read

Kiki’s Story Now Available en Español

By NFP on Aug 18, 2020 3:43:52 PM

Enrique-camarena1His mission was to get drugs off the street and his death was not in vain. DEA agent Enrique (Kiki) Camarena dedicated his career to putting an end to the influx of drugs in United States in the 1980s. Sadly, on what appeared to be a typical day in February of 1985, Agent Camarena was kidnapped, and his lifeless body was found a month later in Mexico.  His death inspired communities across the nation to call awareness to drug and alcohol abuse within their communities by wearing red ribbons, thus continuing Agent Camarena’s mission. The story that sparked the beginning of the National Red Ribbon Campaign™ is now available for download in Spanish. Click here and access it via our downloads page.
Topics: red ribbon

Celebrate Being Drug Free

By NFP on Jun 17, 2020 12:59:38 PM

Print out the Red Ribbon Theme sign, add your name, hold it up and post a photo that shows us you’re committed to living drug free.

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Tag us on Facebook & Twitter: @RedRibbonWeek Instagram: @RedRibbonCampaign

Topics: red ribbon 2020 red ribbon theme

Does your local landmark light up?

By NFP on Jun 15, 2020 1:46:00 PM

How about your school, office building, local bridge or stadium? Find out if it can be turned red in honor of Red Ribbon Week.

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2 min read

2020 Red Ribbon Social Media Tools

By NFP on Apr 29, 2020 9:42:00 AM

Spread the Red Ribbon message online. Use our Facebook and Twitter posts!

Virtual Red Ribbon Campaign Tools 

Share your support for Red Ribbon Week with your friends and followers! Together, we can send a clear message across America. All you have to do to participate is tweet or post on Facebook with any or all of the suggested language below to spread the word about Red Ribbon Week: See the examples below, copy the language you want to use on your blog or social networking site and start spreading the message! We also encourage you to take a photo of your favorite drug-free activities and post on Instagram with #redribbonweek and #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree.

Sample Facebook Posts

  • Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free. – Celebrate Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31).
  • It’s Red Ribbon Week and I am taking a stand against drugs. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • Today, I’m honoring Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who died while fighting substance abuse. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week 2020. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • Today, I'm joining teens, parents, teachers, and other citizens across America in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31), the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation.
  • Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week. Our children have the right to grow up drug free – and we have the responsibility to make that happen. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge
  • I’m entering the Red Ribbon Photo Contest to win an iPad and $1,000 for my school. You can enter too at www.redribbon.org/contest
  • I’m a teacher who believes in a drug free future for my students. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31)
  • I’m a parent who believes in a drug free future for my children. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31).

Sample Tweets

  • Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free. Celebrate #RedRibbonWeek (October 23-31). #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
  • It’s Red Ribbon Week and I am taking a stand against drugs. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #RedRibbonWeek #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
  • Today, I’m honoring Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who died while fighting substance abuse. Join me. Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge . #RedRibbonWeek
  • Today, I'm joining teens, parents, teachers, and other citizens across America in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31), the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation. #RedRibbonWeek
  • Join me in celebrating #RedRibbonWeek. Our children have the right to grow up drug free – and we have the responsibility to make that happen. #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
  • Take the pledge: www.redribbon.org/pledge. #RedRibbonWeek #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
  • I’m entering the Red Ribbon Photo Contest to win an iPad and $1,000 for my school. You can enter too at www.redribbon.org/contest. #RedRibbonWeek
  • I’m a teacher who believes in a drug free future for my students. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31). #redribbonweek #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
  • I’m a parent who believes in a drug free future for my children. Join me in celebrating Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31). #redribbonweek #BeHappyBeBraveBeDrugFree
Topics: red ribbon social media

Facts about vaping

By NFP on Apr 17, 2020 9:33:00 AM

The Red Ribbon Campaign has partnered with the Lung Love Foundation in order to bring you the facts about the dangers of vaping. The organization was started after its founder, Chance Ammirata nearly died after Juuling. To learn more about the organization visit: LungLoveFoundation.org

Click the link to watch Chance’s CBS News interview Chance's story.

Click here to view our Vaping Fact Sheet.

Does vaping put you at higher risk for contracting COVID-19?

By Audri Amoro on Mar 25, 2020 9:35:00 AM

Because it attacks the lungs, the virus could pose a serious threat to those who smoke or vape. People with opioid use disorder and methamphetamine use disorder may also be vulnerable due to those drugs' effects on respiratory and pulmonary health. Read more here: COVID-19

The Red Ribbon Campaign has partnered with the Lung Love Foundation in order to bring you the facts about the dangers of vaping. The organization was started after its founder, Chance Ammirata nearly died after Juuling.  To learn more about the organization visit: LungLoveFoundation.org

Click the link to watch Chance’s CBS News interview: Chance's story.

Topics: vaping Covid-19
1 min read

Enrique Camarena Red Ribbon Award recipient

By Audri Amoro on Feb 26, 2020 9:38:00 AM

Sunny Lofton, Principal of La Vista Center in Fair Oaks, California is the 2020 recipient of the Enrique Camarena Red Ribbon Award. The annual award recognizes and honors individuals who have made a significant contribution to the field of drug prevention, and the winner personifies Agent Camarena’s belief that one person can make a difference.

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He was nominated for the award by La Vista school counselor Trudy Boyd who described him as a role model for all students to follow. “He is friendly, upbeat and happy and will go out of his way to help the students in any way he can,” she said. “Sunny takes on any situation given to him and manages it in order to attain the best possible outcome.”

A second year Principal at La Vista Center, Sunny has welcomed several outside groups to the school to present information about drug prevention and intervention. In addition to encouraging others to stay drug-free, he is also an advocate of sports programs and work projects designed to keep students’ minds active. Sunny also makes it a priority to get the school’s therapists involved when a student struggles with drug use and addiction. “I attempt to use alternative discipline measures instead of just suspension for those who are caught with drugs or alcohol in their possession.”  He said. He also implemented the use of an app that allows students to stay anonymous when they want to report drug use on campus. He often uses the slogan “Find Your Path” and tries to help his students find their individual and unique ways to be successful. His message for schools and teachers is to recognize their impact and influence over their students’ lives. “Kids are at risk now more than ever,” he said. “And while drugs like marijuana and the use of vaping are on the rise, I am still fighting the fight!”

If you know someone who is an outstanding contributor to the field of drug prevention in your community, you may nominate them by completing the Enrique Camarena award form located inside the School Planning Guide. You can download it here: https://redribbon.org/downloads/

Red Ribbon Fridays

By Audri Amoro on Feb 21, 2020 9:40:00 AM

Teachers, we want to hear from your students. Ask them to think of a time when they took an opportunity to encourage someone to stay drug free.

  • What were the circumstances?
  • How did it turn out?

We’d like to hear their story. Have them send us their name, grade and school name and they could be featured online and receive a discount on Red Ribbon merchandise. Email us at: RedRibbon@NFP.org by Friday, February 28.

Topics: red ribbon
3 min read

Red Ribbon Campaign Announces 2020 National Red Ribbon Week Theme

By Audri Amoro on Feb 3, 2020 9:45:00 AM

NEW THEME IS: “BE HAPPY. BE BRAVE. BE DRUG FREE.” ™

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Miami (February 3, 2020) – The Red Ribbon Campaign unveiled its new 2020 Red Ribbon Theme, “Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free. ™” which was chosen from hundreds of submissions through a national contest, and will be used throughout 2020 in thousands of schools and communities across America.

Submitted by Tricia Nelson, a Physical Education Teacher at Locust Corner Elementary School in Cincinnati, the theme will help amplify the campaign’s mission which is to encourage children, families and communities to live healthy, safe and drug-free lives. The theme will especially be highlighted during Red Ribbon Week®, the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program, taking place each year from October 23 through 31st .

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A first year Elementary School teacher, Tricia aims to instill hope and strength in her students. “I often tell my students that they are brave and strong, especially if they are having a hard time with a new activity,” she said. She emphasized the importance of the Red Ribbon Campaign’s message which she hopes will resonate when challenges arise. “I love how the campaign starts a difficult conversation between students and teachers,” she said. “I hope that when faced with tough decisions, students look back, remember Red Ribbon Week and make healthy choices.”

Last year, Tricia’s students participated in a dress up day called “Sock it to Drugs.” Students also discussed making healthy choices and talked about their future hopes and dreams. “I really would like the theme to inspire others for use as their mantra. Bravery is not just for superheroes.”

Each year the National Family Partnership (NFP) sponsors the Red Ribbon Theme Contest by inviting Americans across the country to submit a unique slogan that captures the essence and mission of the campaign.

“We really strive to give educators and students a chance to shape the campaign in a way that is meaningful and relevant to the community each year,” said Peggy B. Sapp, NFP President. “So many of our youth are fascinated by superhero culture from Superman and Wonder Woman to Captain Marvel and Spider-Man. It’s only fitting that this year we encourage them to be happy, brave and drug free.”

Theme submissions are accepted beginning January 1 through December 2. Winners receive national recognition and $500 worth of Red Ribbon Week themed merchandise for their local K- 12 school. Individuals who are interested in purchasing Red Ribbon Themed products should visit www.nimcoinc.com, the official supplier of the Red Ribbon Campaign.

Get involved! Share your Red Ribbon plans/events here. Check out our 2020 Red Ribbon Planning guide here, and get a head start on purchasing your Red Ribbon themed supplies by visiting www.nimcoinc.com, the official supplier of Red Ribbon Campaign themed merchandise.

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.

ABOUT THE RED RIBBON CAMPAIGN

The Red Ribbon became a symbol for drug prevention in 1985, in response to the murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. Informed Families started the first county-wide Red Ribbon campaign in 1986. In 1988, NFP sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Week® celebration. Today, the Red Ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Since that time, the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families.

Have you heard of the Dry January Challenge?

By Audri Amoro on Jan 13, 2020 9:46:00 AM

Have you heard of the Dry January Challenge? Dry January is a campaign that urges people to abstain from alcohol during the month of January. Learn more about how taking a break from drinking for 30 days can lead to lasting health benefits. 

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3 min read

National Family Partnership Announces Winners of the 9th Annual National Red Ribbon Photo Contest

By Audri Amoro on Dec 2, 2019 10:19:00 AM

Miami, FL (December 2, 2019) – National Family Partnership (NFP) is proud to announce the 20 winners of its 9th Annual National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest, that was held in conjunction with National Red Ribbon Week which takes place each year from October 23 through 31.

Co-sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Agency, the annual contest invited families and schools across the country to decorate the fronts of their homes and school campuses with a double-looped red ribbon in order to draw attention to the importance of staying drug free.  This year all submissions were required to incorporate the 2019 campaign slogan, Send A Message. Stay Drug Free.™

The winning photos were among hundreds of entries uploaded to RedRibbon.org. Ten winners received the most votes in their designated regions, and ten winners were chosen to receive a home or school award from a category that included: Most Creative, Best Use of School and Community, Best Use of the Theme, Most Parent or Family Participation, and Most Educational.  Families and individuals who entered on behalf of their schools will receive an Apple iPad and a $1,000 donation made to the K-12 school of their choice in support of drug prevention.

“The National Family Partnership (NFP) works tirelessly to help Americans across the country come together to keep children, families and communities safe through education, networking and by sponsoring the National Red Ribbon Photo Contest,” said NFP President Peggy Sapp.  "We congratulate the winners and thank them for helping us to continue to spread our message through their beautiful and creative photos.”

Kelly Fox, SADD Advisor and Health Teacher at Braintree High School in Braintree, MA won an award for receiving the most votes in her region. 

“I really enjoy the unity that surrounds Red Ribbon Week,” she said. This initiative helps our community come together and allows us to talk about substance abuse prevention while also giving us something positive and exciting to focus on.”

For the last nine years, the Drug Enforcement Administration has co-sponsored the contest. 

“The Drug Enforcement Administration is pleased to co-sponsor the National Red Ribbon Week Photo Contest,” said Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon. “This contest is a great way to start discussions about preventing drug abuse and drug misuse among youth at home and in school. During Red Ribbon Week, we honor the sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and highlight the importance of living a drug-free life.”

More than 23,000 votes were cast in support of more than 400 contest entries.

2019 CONTEST WINNERS:

 

Home Winners with the most votes:
 
• Region 1 – Vickie Schultz – Girard, PA - Cambridge Springs Jr./Sr. High School
• Region 2 – Clayton Bradfield – Lee, FL - Madison Creative Arts Academy
• Region 3 -  Ginny Robinson – Dora, MO - Dora R-3 School
• Region 4 -  Fallon Wilson – Chelsea, OK - Chelsea High School
• Region 5 – Lynn Chambless – Tustin, CA - Calvary Christian School Santa Ana
 

 

 

School Winners with the most votes:
 
• Region 1 – Kelly Fox – Braintree, MA – Braintree High School 
• Region 2 – Jennifer Moser and Linda Romero – Miramar, FL – Glades Middle School
• Region 3 – Bev Davison – Dora, MO – Dora R-3 School 
• Region 4 – Ashley Trapp – Cypress, TX – Salyards Middle School 
• Region 5 – Jay Beckleheimer – Buena Park, CA – Arthur Corey Elementary School 
 

 

Home Judges Awards:

• Most Creative - Cammy Dupree – Scott, LA - Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy
• Most Pizazz - Brianna Brewster – Pembroke Pines, FL - Pembroke Pines Charter School - FSU Campus
• Best Use of Family and Community - Robin Rog – Chicago, IL - St. Eugene School
• Best Use of the Theme - Natalia Solares – Pembroke Pines, FL – Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School
• Most Family/Parent Representation - Betty Robinson – Hialeah, FL - Kinloch Park Middle School
• Most Educational – Arcelia Arellano – Hemet, CA - Hemet Elementary

School Judges Awards:

• Most Creative – Rachel Branagan – Munster, IN – Elliott Elementary School
• Best Use of School and Community – Lety Gonzalez – Beaumont, TX – Regina Howell Elementary School
• Best Use of the Theme – Alisa Nepp – Ringgold, GA – Ringgold Elementary School
• Most Ambitious, Lauren Andrews – Lehi, UT – Meadow Elementary School
• Most Educational – Debbi Fincher – Friday Harbor, WA – Friday Harbor High School

2 min read

NATIONAL FAMILY PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCES CREATION OF DRUG FREE USA FOREVER STAMP

By NFP on Nov 1, 2019 9:16:00 AM

Stamp to Raise National Awareness about the Dangers of Drug Misuse

Miami, FL (November 1, 2019) – The U.S. Postal Service revealed the new “Drug Free USA Forever” stamp yesterday in conjunction with National Family Partnership’s (NFP) Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program taking place each year from October 23 through 31.

Earlier this year, the Drug Enforcement Administration and NFP submitted a joint letter to the U.S. Postal Service’s Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee, to propose a stamp to raise national awareness about the dangers of drug misuse.

“NFP is delighted that the U.S. Postal Service is committed to supporting our efforts to promote drug prevention, education and awareness,” said NFP President Peggy B. Sapp. “We all must continue to play our unique roles in spreading the word to communities about how individuals can make healthy choices.”

The Drug Free USA Forever stamp features a white star with lines of red, light blue, and blue radiating from one side of each of the star’s five points, suggesting the unity necessary at all levels to effectively address drug use. The stamp will go on sale in October 2020.

"The Postal Service is glad to do its part in marking Red Ribbon Week, and renewing our commitment to helping these efforts to educate youth about the dangers of illegal drugs,” said Robert M. Duncan, chairman of the USPS Board of Governors. 

The Red Ribbon became a symbol for drug prevention in 1985, in response to the murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. Informed Families started the first county-wide Red Ribbon campaign in 1986. In 1988, NFP sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Week® celebration. Today, the Red Ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Since that time, the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families.

To learn more about the National Family Partnership, visit NFP.org.

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.

1 min read

ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT TO ENTER THE 9TH ANNUAL NATIONAL RED RIBBON PHOTO CONTEST

By NFP on Oct 25, 2019 9:20:00 AM

 

You still have time to snap and upload your best Red Ribbon themed photo! First, take a photo and then choose a category. Entries to the Home category should display a decorated home front door, mailbox or fence with a double-looped red ribbon, and include the words of this year’s theme, “Send A Message. Stay Drug Free.” Entries to the School category should display the campus, a double-looped red ribbon and include the words of this year’s theme. Next, upload your photo to www.RedRibbon.org/contest, and tell your friends, family and classmates to cast their vote during the voting period which will take place from November 2 through 16. The ten entrants with the most votes from each region will win an iPad and $1,000 to be given to the K-12 school of their choice. An additional ten winners will also be chosen by a panel of judges. Winners will be announced December 2. For details and contest rules, visit our website at www.RedRibbon.org/contest.

THE RED RIBBON THEME IS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

By NFP on Sep 13, 2019 9:22:00 AM

As a reminder, Red Ribbon themes are owned by The National Family Partnership and are protected under US copyright and trademark law. The materials cannot be altered, distributed or sold without our permission. If you are interested in producing Red Ribbon merchandise, please contact the National Family Partnership at info@nfp.org for information.

 

1 min read

2019 RED RIBBON WEEK RESOURCE: EVERFI'S PRESCRIPTION DRUG SAFETY COURSE

By NFP on Sep 11, 2019 9:38:00 AM

Each year, the National Family Partnership looks for new ways to highlight exciting and effective prevention methods. As we quickly approach Red Ribbon Week, now is the perfect time for you to learn more about Everfi's Prescription Drug Safety Network (PDSN).

PDSN is a national coalition committed to empowering Americans with the skills and knowledge to make safe decisions about prescription medications through digital education reaching over 155,000+ students in the 2018-19 school year.

The Prescription Drug Safety course is a self-guided digital learning experience that uses interactive content and stimulations to equip students with the strategies and best practices to manage and dispose of prescription medications. Data from pre-and-post course assessments shows that learners are more prepared and feel more empowered to make safe and responsible decisions about prescription medication after taking the Prescription Drug Safety course. Click here to learn more about how to get involved.

Click on the course description below for details.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

CLICK ON VIDEO BELOW

 

Topics: red ribbon
2 min read

ANNOUNCING THE 2019 RED RIBBON THEME: SEND A MESSAGE. STAY DRUG FREE.™

By NFP on Feb 1, 2019 10:09:00 AM

The 2019 National Red Ribbon Week theme is: Send a Message. Stay Drug Free.™

Izabella Ware, a student from Griswold Middle School in Griswold, CT, created the winning theme for 2019 Red Ribbon Week, which takes place October 23-31. Ware's theme, "Send A Message. Stay Drug Free."  was selected among thousands of Red Ribbon theme ideas submitted by students, parents, educators and members of communities across America.

Griswold Middle School will receive national recognition and $500 in Red Ribbon Theme merchandise from Nimco, Inc.

  • The theme is a call to action to speak out in support of healthy choices. The theme is also a reminder that by staying drug free, you are sending a message to yourself and others about how much you value yourself, your overall health, your community and your future.

The annual National Red Ribbon Theme Contest, sponsored by the National Family Partnership, offers students and other prevention supporters the opportunity to be a part of history. The winning slogan will be used throughout 2019 in thousands of schools and communities across America.

As the nation’s largest and oldest drug prevention campaign, Red Ribbon Week® reaches over 80 million people each year throughout the United States.

This is the first year that a student at Griswold Middle School won the National Red Ribbon Theme contest. Izabella learned about the contest from her health teacher Kristen Butremovic, who has been celebrating the Red Ribbon Campaign for 21 years.

Want to make 2019 Red Ribbon Week the best yet? Stay tuned for the release of our 2019 Red Ribbon Planning Guide. Share your Red Ribbon plans/events here. Check out our curriculum ideas here. And stay tuned for details about our 2019 National Red Ribbon Photo Contest.

Topics: red ribbon red ribbon theme

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