National Family Partnership Announces 2025 Red Ribbon Week Theme: : “Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™”
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