Red Ribbon Week: Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.

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October 23–31, 2026 | Life Education Center

Red Ribbon Week is a time for schools, families, and communities to come together around an important message: our young people deserve the opportunity to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. This year’s theme, “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free,” reminds us that every one of us can play a role in encouraging healthy choices and building a stronger community.

Healthy Choices Start with Connection

Preventing substance use is about more than telling young people what to avoid. It’s about helping them develop the confidence, coping skills, and supportive relationships they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that students who experience supportive school environments and active parental involvement are less likely to engage in alcohol and drug use. Positive relationships, clear expectations, healthy friendships, and opportunities to participate in school and community activities can all help protect young people.

The need for prevention remains important. According to the CDC’s 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey, about 1 in 10 high school students reported using a tobacco product in the past 30 days. Although youth tobacco use has declined, nicotine products remain a concern. Preventing substance use early can help protect young people’s health and future opportunities.

So, what can we do as a community?

Start conversations. Ask young people about their interests, friendships, challenges, and goals. Listen with curiosity instead of jumping straight to a lecture.
Encourage healthy outlets. Creative projects, sports, outdoor adventures, volunteering, and other positive activities give young people opportunities to build skills and find a sense of belonging.
Be a source of support. Make it clear that asking for help is a sign of strength. If substance use is affecting a young person or family, reaching out to a trusted professional or local support service can be an important first step.
Lead by example. The choices we make and the way we handle stress can help shape the choices young people make for themselves.

You don’t have to make a grand gesture to make a difference. Sometimes, a meaningful conversation, a shared activity, or simply showing up when someone needs you can have a lasting impact.

Make Healthy Memories Together

One way to encourage healthy choices is to make time for the people and activities that help us feel connected. Red Ribbon Week is a great opportunity to enjoy something together as a family, support local organizations, and discover what our communities have to offer.

Here are a few upcoming activities in Kankakee and Iroquois counties to add to your calendar.

Family Fun in Kankakee County

Friday, October 23 | The Great Campfire Gathering Kankakee Valley Park District Campground

Enjoy an autumn evening with hayrides, scarecrow decorating, marshmallow roasting, live music, and family activities. Admission is listed at $5 per person with advance registration or $10 at the door, with day-of hayrides subject to availability.Event details: https://www.kvpd.com/events/the-great-campfire-gathering

Thursday, October 29 | Trunk or Treat & Family Literacy Night Kankakee County Community Services, Inc. parking lot, 657 E. Court Street, Kankakee

The Kankakee County NAACP Youth Council is hosting a family evening featuring candy, free books, and snacks. Bring the kids in costume for an opportunity to enjoy the season and celebrate literacy together. The event is listed for 6–7 p.m.Event details: https://kankakeewithkids.com/event/trunk-or-treat-npZqgb

Thursday, October 29 | Health & Resource Fair Kankakee Civic Center, 803 S. Eighth Avenue, Kankakee

Stop by from 2–7 p.m. to learn about community organizations and resources available to area residents. It’s an opportunity to discover support services that can benefit individuals and families.

Friday, October 30 | Halloween SpooktacularKankakee Public Library, 201 E. Merchant Street, Kankakee

Enjoy an evening of Halloween fun at the library’s annual Spooktacular and trunk-or-treat event, scheduled for 6–8 p.m.

Saturday, October 31 | Spooky Skate Kankakee Valley Park District

Finish the month with a seasonal skating outing. Check the park district’s event calendar for current details, times, and any registration requirements: https://www.kvpd.com/events

Family Fun in Iroquois County

Friday, October 23 | Preschool Storytime: Pumpkins Gilman-Danforth District Library

Little ones can enjoy pumpkin-themed stories and an activity celebrating the color orange. The event is listed for 9:30–10 a.m., and all children are welcome; a library card is not required.

Saturday, October 24 | Iroquois Community Center Boo-tique Bash Dunning Park, Iroquois

Bring the family to this community vendor fair from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Browse local crafts and baked goods, enjoy food trucks, and let the kids participate in activities while supporting efforts to repair the community center.

For more area events, check the community calendar at https://www.wgfaradio.com/illiana-bulletin-board.

Event details and schedules can change. Please confirm information with the host organization before heading out.

Saturday, October 31 | ART - OR- TREAT @ The Emri Road Studio 110 E. Main Street, Ashkum. 5 - 7 pm. Swing by during trick-or-treat hours for a cup of hot cocoa, a sweet treat and a little make-and-take art project! www.theemriroadproject.com

Choose Wise Highs. Make a Difference.

This Red Ribbon Week, the Life Education Center encourages everyone to help make healthy choices the easier choices for our young people. Whether you start a conversation, attend a community event, encourage a friend, or connect someone with support, your actions matter.

Join us in choosing Wise Highs—healthy experiences, positive relationships, and activities that help us grow without alcohol or other drugs.

And a reminder for our young artists: Red Ribbon Week coloring contest entries are due November 2! We look forward to seeing your creativity and the ways you help spread the message.

Together, we can make a difference—one conversation, one healthy choice, and one connection at a time.