This October, schools across Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Grady, Grant, Harmon, Jackson, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Texas, Washita, and Woodward counties celebrated Red Ribbon Week 2025 with creativity, compassion, and community spirit. Embracing this year’s theme, “Life Is a Puzzle. Solve It Drug Free.”, students and staff participated in a variety of activities that highlighted the importance of making healthy choices and supporting one another.
Throughout the week, campuses were alive with themed dress-up days that brought excitement and awareness to the cause. From puzzle- piece patterns to team spirit outfits, each day served as a visual reminder that everyone plays a role in solving life’s challenges without drugs.
In a powerful act of service, schools hosted food drives, collecting donations for local families in need. These efforts not only helped stock community pantries but also taught students the value of giving back and supporting others.
Some schools took the message even further by organizing victims impact panels. These panels featured speakers who shared personal stories about how substance abuse affected their lives and communities. Honest and emotional testimonies encouraged students to reflect deeply on the consequences of drug use and the importance of making informed, positive choices.
Red Ribbon Week 2025 was more than just a celebration; it was a meaningful movement. By connecting the pieces of awareness, empathy, and action, students across the region were reminded that living drug-free is a powerful way to complete the puzzle of a healthy life.
For more information about South Western Oklahoma Development Authority’s Substance Use Prevention efforts in your area, please visit www.swoda.org or contact DeShawna Smyth, Assistant Project Manager for Prevention at [email protected] or 580-5625039.

