FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami, FL — The National Family Partnership (NFP) has announced the official 2026 Red Ribbon Week theme: “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.™” The theme was selected through NFP’s annual Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest and highlights the idea that choosing to live drug-free is an everyday act of leadership, courage, and positive influence.

The winning slogan was submitted by Ava Tackett, whose message stood out for its clarity, empowerment, and strong focus on personal responsibility and peer influence. “Drug free means not taking drugs and making an impact on others,” Ava shared.

“You can be a hero to other people by not using drugs and inspire them to choose a healthy lifestyle. Heroes inspire others…like Batman to Robin!” - Ava Tackett

Ava’s teacher, Kristen Butremavic , also highlighted the theme’s impact on students, noting that it helps them see that role models aren’t only adults or athletes—they’re classmates making healthy choices and leading with confidence and kindness.

Peggy B. Sapp, President of the National Family Partnership, emphasized the value of youth voices in prevention: “The Red Ribbon Week Theme Contest isa meaningful way to engage communities nationwide. Each year, students remind us that living drug-free is a message worth sharing — and living— for life.

As a prevention partner supporting Red Ribbon Week messaging and community activation, The National Family Partnership encourages schools,families, and community organizations to use this year’s theme to spotlight the everyday heroes who make healthy choices and influence others through confidence, kindness, and example.

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

Red Ribbon Week will be observed October 23–31.
For more information, visit www.RedRibbon.org.

At the National Family Partnership, we believe that every parent, grandparent, educator, and community leader has the power to make a difference in a child’s life. And sometimes, that difference begins in the most unexpected place—your own medicine cabinet.

Through our Lock Your Meds® campaign, we’re empowering families to take practical, preventative action against one of today’s most underrecognized threats: youth access to prescription medications.

The Hidden Risk at Home

You might be surprised to learn that the majority of teens who misuse prescription drugs don’t get them from drug dealers—they get them from family and friends. Too often, medications are left unsecured, creating unintended opportunities for misuse.

As caregivers, we don’t always realize we’re potential “suppliers.” But we are. And the good news is—we can change that with a few mindful, proactive steps.

Lock Your Meds®: Prevention Starts at Home

Lock Your Meds® isn’t just a slogan—it’s a national prevention movement we launched to help adults reduce youth prescription drug misuse, beginning in the home. The campaign is designed to make taking action both easy and effective.

Here’s what you can do starting today:

🔐 Lock Medications Securely

Keep all prescription and over-the-counter meds in a safe, locked location. A lockbox, drawer, or cabinet that only adults can access helps prevent temptation or experimentation.

Purchase lockboxes here!

📋 Keep Track of Meds

Use our medication inventory card to stay aware of what you have, how much, and when it’s used. This keeps you informed—and discourages unauthorized access.

Download the card

🗑 Dispose of Unused Meds

Don’t keep old medications “just in case.” Use local drop-off programs or recommended disposal methods to clear out what you no longer need.

Search for a location near you

💬 Talk Openly With Kids

Honest, age-appropriate conversations build trust. Talk about the dangers of prescription misuse and how to make safe choices.

National Movement, Local Impact

Lock Your Meds® is making a difference across the country thanks to our passionate network of families, educators, prevention coalitions, and community organizations. Together, we’ve seen what’s possible when awareness becomes action.

From schools and sports teams to local pharmacies and faith groups, partners are helping us reach more households with our message: Lock your meds. Protect your family. Strengthen your community.

Free Resources to Help You Get Involved

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or community leader, you have access to tools that can make a lasting impact.

• Downloadable guides and conversation starters
• Inventory tracking tools
• Pledge to take action and spread the word
• Community event materials and ideas

Explore all our resources at lockyourmeds.org and join thousands of families across the nation taking the first step toward prevention.

Protect What Matters Most

It’s easy to overlook the medications in our homes. But now more than ever, it’s crucial to lock them up, track them, and talk about them. These actions might feel small—but they have the power to prevent misuse, protect futures, and build safer, healthier communities.

We’re here to support you.
Together, we can keep our youth safe and our families strong.

Why informed conversations matter now more than ever

At the National Family Partnership, we’ve spent decades focused on one truth: when families are informed and engaged, young people are safer.

Today, emerging research is sending a clear message. Youth who use marijuana are far more likely to go on to use tobacco and nicotine products, increasing their risk for long‑term health consequences.

What the Latest Research Shows

Long‑term studies tracking adolescents and young adults reveal a strong progression from marijuana use to regular tobacco use. As marijuana becomes more accessible and socially accepted, the likelihood of youth experimenting — and then escalating — increases.

Researchers warn that this pattern may lead to hundreds of thousands of additional young people becoming long‑term tobacco users, driven in part by early cannabis exposure.

Read more about the findings

Why This Connection Is Concerning

Nicotine addiction is one of the hardest habits to break, especially when it begins during adolescence. Tobacco use impacts:

• Brain development
• Mental health
• Long‑term physical well‑being

When marijuana and tobacco use overlap — particularly through vaping — the risks increase, and quitting becomes harder.

The Power of Informed Conversations

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in prevention. Research consistently shows that youth are less likely to engage in risky behaviors when adults talk openly and honestly with them.

Here’s how to start:

• Ask what they’re seeing or hearing at school or online
• Share facts without judgment
• Set clear expectations while keeping communication open
• Reinforce that asking questions is always okay

Resources to Support Families

• SAMHSA – Parent Conversation Tools:
  🔗 https://www.samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you

• National Institute on Drug Abuse – Youth Resources:
  🔗 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/parents-educators

At the National Family Partnership, we know that the more parents understand emerging risks, the more confidently they can guide their children. Prevention isn’t about reacting after harm happens — it’s about staying informed, connected, and proactive.

When families talk, youth listen.
And when families act, communities grow stronger.

We honor Tom’s leadership, clarity, and unwavering commitment to protecting families and strengthening communities

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Thomas “Tom” V. Cash, who died unexpectedly on Christmas Day.

Tom dedicated his life to public service and the safety of others. He served our nation for decades in law enforcement and drug control efforts, including distinguished leadership roles with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal agencies. Those who worked with Tom remember him as a steady leader with a sharp mind, a direct and honest approach, and a deep respect for mission-driven work.

Beyond his professional career, Tom gave generously of his time and guidance to prevention. He served on the National Family Partnership Board of Directors and previously served as Chairman of Informed Families. His counsel, clarity, and commitment helped strengthen the work we do every day on behalf of families, youth, and communities.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Hillary Avenali Cash, his children, grandchildren, and extended family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Capital Grille (2430 E Sunrise Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304).

Tom’s legacy will continue through the prevention work he championed, and through the many people he mentored, supported, and inspired along the way.

In honor of Tom’s lifelong commitment to protecting children and families, we invite those who wish to do so to consider making a contribution to support prevention education through National Family Partnership. 

Across the country, laws around cannabis are changing quickly—but not all communities are experiencing those changes the same way. At the National Family Partnership, we’re closely watching how local cannabis policies—like dispensary zoning and delivery permissions—are affecting teenagers.

Emerging research reveals a clear trend: teens are far more likely to use cannabis when they live in areas that allow retail sales or cannabis delivery services. That includes more frequent and heavier use, not just experimentation.

That’s why we’re speaking directly to families, caregivers, and communities: the choices we make at the local level can have a direct impact on our kids.

Why Local Policies Matter for Teen Behavior

Even in states where cannabis is legal, local governments decide whether dispensaries can open, where they’re located, whether delivery is allowed, and how cannabis is advertised. And those choices shape what teens see—and how they think.

When cannabis is sold just down the street or delivered within minutes, teens begin to perceive it as normal or harmless. This is called reduced perceived risk—a key factor in youth substance use.

In fact, teens in areas with more visible cannabis access are:

• More likely to believe “everyone is doing it.”
• Less likely to understand the risks of high-potency THC products.
• More likely to try it themselves—especially through edibles or vaping.

Read our President's most recent message: THE BIG LIE: Marijuana isn't as safe as many believe

The Real Risks of Today’s Cannabis for Teens

Cannabis today is very different from the marijuana of decades past. THC concentrations have skyrocketed, especially in vape cartridges and edible products, making the effects more intense and the potential for dependency greater.

Research shows that cannabis can:

• Affect memory and learning, especially in still-developing brains.
• Increase anxiety or depression symptoms in some adolescents.
• Lead to addiction, particularly with early or frequent use.
• Impair driving and reaction times, even hours after use.

As cannabis becomes more accessible in a community, so does early and frequent teen exposure to these risks.

How Your Family and Community Can Make a Difference

While legalization decisions often happen at the state level, local communities hold the power to protect youth. Here’s how we recommend taking action:

1. Start the Conversation at Home

Talking to your teen about cannabis can feel intimidating—but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have.

Use honest, open-ended questions. Ask what they’re seeing at school or on social media. Explain how cannabis impacts the teen brain. Most importantly, listen more than you talk.

➡️ What to Do If Your Child Smokes Marijuana

2. Stay Engaged in Local Policy Decisions

Zoning laws, retail permit approvals, and marketing regulations are often decided in city council or county board meetings. Your voice matters. Ask questions like:

• Are dispensaries allowed near schools or parks?
• Is cannabis delivery permitted in your area?
• Are there restrictions on advertising near youth spaces?

3. Advocate for Protective Policies

Support local efforts that:

• Limit the number and location of dispensaries.
• Restrict advertising in public spaces or near schools.
• Ban cannabis delivery to residential addresses without strong age verification.

4. Get Involved in Prevention Programs

Join a coalition or connect with your child’s school counselor to support prevention education. We offer campaigns like:

➡️ Safe Homes Smart Parties
➡️ Family Day: A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children

Explore more in our Parent & Community Resource Hub.

Prevention Works Best When It’s Local and Personal

What makes local policy so powerful is its ability to reflect the values, goals, and needs of a specific community. When families, schools, and leaders work together to promote youth well-being, we build stronger neighborhoods—and protect our kids from the subtle pressures of normalization.

Let’s shape a future where smart policy and strong parenting go hand in hand.

---

Helpful Tools and Resources

✅ Guide: What to Say to Teens About Marijuana
✅ Parent & Community Resources – Informed Families

We know parenting comes with challenges—especially in today’s fast-changing world. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. At NFP, we’re here to support you, inform you, and stand beside you as you raise kids to make healthy, informed choices.

Together, we can create communities where teens thrive, choices are clear, and risks are reduced.

Thank you for everything you do.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2025

MIAMI, FL — National Family Partnership (NFP) proudly announces the winners of the 2025 National Red Ribbon Photo Contest, a nationwide initiative that brings families, schools, and communities together to promote drug-use prevention and celebrate living drug-free. This year, thousands of participants showcased their creativity and commitment through powerful photo displays inspired by the 2025 campaign theme: “Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free”.

The contest invited individuals and schools across the country to decorate homes, classrooms, and community spaces with bold red ribbons and messages of prevention. Entries were evaluated on creativity, theme communication, and community engagement.

Each year, the contest highlights the remarkable creativity and dedication shown by students, families, and educators across the country. The 2025 winners reflect the powerful impact communities can make when they come together to support drug-free youth.

All winners will be featured at  www.redribbon.org/2025winners, and each receives a $1,000 donation for their school, thanks to the generous support of our co-sponsor, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

2025 National Red Ribbon Photo Contest Winners

Regional Home Winners

• Region 1: Jodie Deane – Cambridge Springs, PA - Cambridge Springs Jr./Sr. High School
• Region 2: Jonna Williams – Swanquarter, NC - Mattamuskeet High School
• Region 3: Carly Collings – Williston, ND - Williston High School
• Region 5: Brody & Madi Kay Reinhart – Nine Mile Falls, WA - Lakeside High School

Regional School Winners

• Region 1: Kelly Sartre - Braintree, MA - Braintree High School
• Region 2: Jennifer Moser, Jackie Ortiz, Richard Ortiz - Glades Middle School – Miramar, FL – Glades Middle School
• Region 3: Becky Hoffman – Lee’s Summit, MO – Pleasant Lea Middle School
• Region 4: A. X. Erica Guevara – Benavides Elementary School – Brownsville, TX
• Region 5: Crystal Suarez – Edison Middle School – Bakersfield, CA
  
  

Judges Awards – Home (Family Category)

• Most Creative: Shawn Burroughs – Williams Township School – Whiteville, NC
• Most Ambitious: Dana Thomson – Fairfield Elementary – Massapequa, NY
• Best Use of Family & Community: Rodderick Brown – iQ Academy California–Los Angeles (iQLA) – Lancaster, CA
• Best Use of Theme: Todd Holloway – Unity Elementary School – Newnan, GA
  
  

Judges Awards – (School Category)

• Most Creative: Jennifer Robinson – Mount Valley Middle School– Canyon Lake, TX
• Most Ambitious: Stephanie DePiano – Lounsberry Hollow School – Vernon, NJ
• Best Use of School & Community: Karina Alanis – North Shore Elementary School – Houston, TX
• Best Use of Theme: Jessie Whitney – Cypress Springs Elementary –
• Most Educational: Mindy Isles – Slippery Rock Area Middle School – Slippery Rock, PA
  
  

About the National Red Ribbon Campaign

Red Ribbon Week, celebrated annually from October 23rd–31st, is the nation’s oldest and largest drug-use prevention campaign. Started in 1985 in honor of fallen DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, the campaign continues to unite families, schools, and communities in promoting healthy, drug-free lifestyles.

About National Family Partnership

For over 40 years, National Family Partnership (NFP) has led the nation in drug-use prevention education and advocacy. Through community partnerships and national initiatives like the Red Ribbon Campaign®, NFP supports families and communities in building a safer, healthier future for children.

Learn more at www.redribbon.org.

Media Contact:

National Family Partnership
Email: info@redribbon.org
Website: www.redribbon.org

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

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

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

A Nation’s Strength Starts at Home

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

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

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

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

Sign the Red Ribbon Pledge

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

Like the stamp says - this message lasts forever.

______________________________________________________________________________

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

1. Civic Pride in Action:

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

2. Family & Community Bonds

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

3. Building a Drug-Free Tomorrow

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

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

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

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

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

Honoring Four Outstanding Nominees

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

Kathy Ross – Pedro, Ohio
Community Advocate & Leader

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

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

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

Lupe Salcido – Lovington, New Mexico
Bilingual Educator & Advocate

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

Akshar Paduru – Chantilly, Virginia
Youth Leader & Peer Educator

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

Celebrating Their Impact

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

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

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

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

About the Red Ribbon Campaign

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

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

Get Involved & Submit Your Theme for 2026

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

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

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

MEDIA CONTACT:
RedRibbon@NFP.org