Every October, millions of families, schools, and communities unite to celebrate Red Ribbon Week, a tradition that continues to remind us of the power of prevention and the importance of making safe, healthy choices. Since 1985, this campaign has stood as a national symbol of hope — built around one simple, yet life-changing truth: the power of one choice.

One choice can shape a day, a friendship, or a lifetime.

As parents, mentors, and community leaders, the choices we make — what we say, how we act, and the examples we set — send messages that echo through generations. When we choose to talk openly with our children about the dangers of drug use and model positive ways to manage stress or challenges, we empower them to make decisions that strengthen their futures.

This year’s Red Ribbon Week theme, “Life Is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™”, reminds us that life is made up of many interconnected pieces — our decisions, relationships, values, and experiences. Each piece influences the next, and together they form the larger picture of who we become. When we make healthy, drug-free choices, the pieces align into a meaningful, successful life.

Looking back, I’m reminded of a story shared with us in 2012 by Ryan Washburn, a member of the New Hampshire Army National Guard Counterdrug Program. Ryan reached out as he prepared to visit local schools and speak with students about living drug free. He also organized helicopter flyovers to capture aerial photos of schools forming red ribbon shapes on their grounds — a powerful image of unity and purpose.

In my response to Ryan, I encouraged him to tell students that each one of them has the power of “one.”

One person can make a difference — for their friends, families, schools, and communities. One person who chooses to live drug free creates a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same. But one person who chooses to use drugs may close the door to opportunities — college acceptance, scholarships, career goals, and even the ability to fly a helicopter, like Ryan does today.

That same message was reflected in a program created by Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Beth Bloom and her son, Jacob Stern, founders of the Listen UP program. The program educates and empowers parents to take action to prevent permanent consequences from their teens’ mistakes. It raises important questions many families overlook: What happens when your child is caught with a fake ID? Can you be fined or jailed for serving alcohol at a party held in your home? Their goal is to help parents understand that actions have consequences — some short term, others long term — but all shaping the direction of one’s life.

At Informed Families, we continue to share these lessons because prevention is not just a one-time message; it’s a way of life. It begins at home with open communication, family connection, and consistent guidance. It grows when schools, businesses, and communities unite around the same purpose — encouraging every young person to make strong, smart, drug-free choices.

As we celebrate Red Ribbon Week from October 23–31, I invite you to take part in one small action that supports prevention. Light your home or business in red. Wear your red ribbon proudly. Talk with a child about how one choice can change everything.

Together, we’re helping every individual — one person, one choice, and one puzzle piece at a time — create a brighter, drug-free future.