Every year from October 23rd–31st, communities across the nation come together for Red Ribbon Week, a movement dedicated to keeping kids safe, healthy, and drug-free.

The 2025 Theme: Life is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free ™.

This year’s Ribbon Week theme, “Life is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™” was submitted by Cheryl Holsapfel and Carter Weinmann. Their design reminds us that every decision we make is a piece of the larger picture of our lives.

At Nicasa, we see this puzzle come together every day. The choices kids and teens make today shape the future they are building. Choosing to live drug-free is a piece that strengthens the picture, creating a brighter and healthier path forward, one decision at a time.

Why It Matters

Substance use among youth continues to be a pressing concern. Research shows that 1 in 7 teenagers abuse an illicit substance within the last month. That’s why Nicasa makes prevention an ongoing priority, not just during one week in October.

Our Prevention Department works year-round in schools and communities, ensuring that youth have access to the knowledge, support, and safe spaces they need to thrive. Red Ribbon Week is an important reminder of this commitment, and an opportunity for everyone, including families, schools, and neighborhoods, to join the cause.

Our Commitment

During Red Ribbon Week our Prevention Department will be providing education and prevention services at the following places:

• Saturday October 25^th, Choose Your Path in Wauconda, IL will be participating with the Wauconda Police Department, Wauconda Township, and US Justice Department in National Drug Take Back Day. Safe disposal hours are 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Wauconda Township, 505 W. Bonner Road, Wauconda, IL 60084.
• Tuesday October 28th, we invite everyone in the community wear red to support Red Ribbon Week. Please send us your stories and pictures to development@nicasa.org so we can share them on social media. You can also use hashtags: #SolveThePuzzleDrugFree, #RedRibbonWeek, #Prevention, and #DrugFreeAmerica on social media.

Follow Nicasa’s social media about other events at Stand-Up Task Force and Choose Your Path are hosting to support their drug-free communities.

How Families and Communities Can Get Involved

Ribbon Week is most impactful when everyone, parents, schools, and communities, plays a part. Here are a few ways you can join the movement:

• Wear the Red Ribbon: A simple but powerful way to show your support.
• Start Conversations: Talk openly with your children about the risks of drugs and alcohol.
• Engage with Schools: Encourage participation in Ribbon Week activities and prevention programs.
• Support Local Events: Attend or volunteer at community awareness events.

Here are some tips on talking with your teen about substance use:

If you are finding your child continually uses substances, even after talking with them and setting firm boundaries on the matter, if may be time for additional help. It is important to remember Red Ribbon Week is not only about awareness, but also advocacy and resources. Nicasa is committed to a drug-free youth. We are available to help assess the seriousness of the matter and help determine an appropriate level of care for children 12-years-old and older.

Call 847-546-6450 or email info@nicasa.org for more information about our youth services.

For more information on Red Ribbon Week, visit RedRibbon.Org