Texas Lions District 2-E2 Red Ribbon Week One Week. One Mission. Drug-Free Youth — October 23–31

Red Ribbon Week was established in 1985 to honor the sacrifice of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who gave his life in the fight against illegal drugs. In the wake of his death, families and communities across the country began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to a drug-free life. Since then, Red Ribbon Week has evolved into a nationwide movement that reaches millions of people every year — including students, parents, educators, and civic organizations such as Lions Clubs.

During the last week of October, schools and communities organize events, activities, and educational outreach to raise awareness and promote drug prevention. It’s a time to reinforce positive choices and stand united for the health and safety of our youth.

The official Red Ribbon Week theme for 2025 is:

Life Is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.™

This theme encourages youth to see their lives as meaningful and worth protecting. Just like a puzzle, every piece matters — and living a drug-free life helps bring the whole picture together. It’s a message of empowerment, critical thinking, and personal responsibility.

You can learn more about the theme and download official materials at the Red Ribbon Campaign Theme Page.

Lions Clubs across District 2-E2 actively support Red Ribbon Week by partnering with local schools and community groups to spread the drug-free message. Everyday club activities include:

• Sponsoring Red Ribbon assemblies, contests, and awareness events in schools
• Donating red ribbons, educational materials, and prizes for student participation
• Collaborating with law enforcement and prevention coalitions
• Promoting the campaign through social media and community newsletters
• Recognizing youth leaders who take a stand against substance use

Each club is encouraged to collaborate with educators and youth organizations to develop meaningful programs that align with the annual theme and have a lasting impact.

Lions lead by example. By taking the Red Ribbon Pledge, you demonstrate your commitment to living a drug-free life and helping others make safe, healthy choices. It’s a simple but powerful way to support the campaign and stand in solidarity with our youth.

Take the Red Ribbon Pledge here.

Is your Lions Club planning a Red Ribbon Week activity in 2025? Share your ideas and events with the District Youth Opportunities Chair so we can help promote your efforts and celebrate your service. If you need help getting started, we’re here to support you with ideas, materials, and connections to local schools and partners.

Together, we can help young people see the big picture — and empower them to live healthy, drug-free lives.

Red Ribbon Week is a national initiative of the National Family Partnership (NFP). Learn more at www.redribbon.org.

Attention District 2-E2 Lions Clubs:

District 2-E2 Charities is offering matching grants to assist clubs in funding local service projects. This is a great opportunity to expand your impact in the community with financial support from the district.

• The project must be a local community service project.
• The applying club must contribute matching funds.
• The project should support the Lions’ mission and values.
• Application must be submitted prior to the start of the project.

1. Complete the DAC Grant Application form.
2. Include a project description, budget, and timeline.
3. Email the completed application to the DAC Grant Committee.

Let’s work together to serve more and serve better — one project at a time!

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged.

To request the application form or for additional information, contact:

PCC Ron Schlieker
DAC Grant Committee Chair
moc.liamgobfsctd-90b9e4@rekeilhcssr

For more information, visit the Drug Awareness Council website.

1. Grants are considered for the projects organized and sponsored by the Lions Club in good standing in District 2-E2.
2. Grants must further the purpose of the District 2-E2 Drug Awareness Council.
3. Grant priority will be given to Lions Clubs that participate in the 100% Contributions to District 2-E2 Drug Awareness Council.
4. Grant priority will also be given to Lions Clubs that also have financial commitments from School Districts, Philanthropic Organizations, and Corporations.
5. Grants may be requested for up to 50% of the project’s cost and not to exceed $500.
6. Each District 2-E2 Lions Club is eligible to receive one grant per DAC Fiscal Year.
7. Grant requests must be submitted to the DAC via a completed DAC Grant Application.
8. One or more representatives from the Lions Club seeking a Grant from the District 2-E2 Drug Awareness Council must appear at a regularly scheduled meeting of the DAC, whether in person or in an electronic platform (e.g. Zoom). The representative(s) must be prepared to deliver a presentation explaining their club’s project, and be knowledgeable enough about their project to answer questions.
9. Grants may be approved or rejected by a majority vote of the DAC Directors in attendance at any regularly scheduled meeting of the District 2-E2 Drug Awareness Council.
10. At the conclusion of their project, clubs that receive a grant must submit a written final report to the DAC.
11. The District 2-E2 Drug Awareness Council reserves the right to approve or reject applications without explanation.

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.