Each year, the National Family Partnership proudly recognizes exceptional individuals and programs leading the fight against drug abuse through the Enrique “Kiki” Camarena Red Ribbon Award. This prestigious honor commemorates the life and legacy of Kiki Camarena —a DEA agent who gave his life in service to protecting communities from the harms of drug use.
Topics: education, prevention, Informed Families, drug prevention, teachers
Staying Ahead While Staying Connected...Raising teens has never been easy—but parenting in 2025 comes with a unique set of challenges that didn’t exist a generation ago. Social media trends shift by the hour, vaping continues to evolve under the radar, and artificial intelligence now plays a growing role in how kids learn, communicate, and even think.
Topics: parenting, positive parenting, Informed Families, social media, drug trend, parents
As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our country—and the families who stand beside them. Military families play a critical role in our nation’s strength. Their everyday lives are marked by discipline, sacrifice, and resilience. These values not only support their loved ones in uniform but also create strong, prevention-focused homes that we can all learn from.
Topics: Informed Families, social media, drug trend
Summer is around the corner — and while it’s a time for fun and freedom, it can also bring new challenges for parents. With more free time and less structure, kids are at a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors. That’s why Informed Families created a proactive Summer Prevention Plan to help families stay connected, engaged, and substance-free all season long. From fun activities to clear safety tips, we’ve got everything you need to make this summer safe and memorable.
Topics: social media, drug trend, emojis
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside countless families, schools, and communities as we work together to raise healthy, resilient children. And if there’s one truth I’ve learned, it’s this: Prevention doesn’t happen in a one-time talk—it happens in the everyday moments.
Topics: President's Message, lock your meds, club drugs, safe parties, safe homes smart parties, alcohol, Informed Families, lock your meds pledge, alcohol use, summer, alcohol abuse, substance abuse, spring break
From the moment a child enters the world, they begin looking to the adults around them for guidance. And for many, that guiding light comes from a mother figure. Whether it’s a biological mom, stepmom, grandma, aunt, foster mom, or a chosen maternal presence—these women play a profound role in shaping the way young people view themselves, the world, and the choices they make.
Topics: tips for talking with your kids about drugs, communication, Informed Families, drug prevention, alcohol use, vaping, mindfullness, mother
It's not just about having one "big talk" — it's about creating a steady, open dialogue that builds trust, encourages healthy decision-making, and empowers teens to make smart choices.
Topics: tips for talking with your kids about drugs, communication, Informed Families, drug prevention, alcohol use, vaping, mindfullness
As teens navigate growing responsibilities, social pressure, and emotional changes, it’s more important than ever for parents to open the door to honest conversations—especially when it comes to alcohol. While many parents focus on the risks of impaired driving or legal trouble, fewer realize the deep connection between alcohol use and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
Topics: tips for talking with your kids about drugs, communication, Informed Families, drug prevention, alcohol use, vaping, mindfullness
April marks Alcohol Awareness Month—a powerful opportunity for families to open the door to conversations that can shape a child’s future.
Topics: President's Message, lock your meds, club drugs, safe parties, safe homes smart parties, alcohol, Informed Families, lock your meds pledge, alcohol use, summer, alcohol abuse, substance abuse, spring break
Vaping has become the go-to habit for many teens, often disguised behind fruity flavors and sleek devices. It’s marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking, but the reality is far more dangerous than most people realize. If you think your teen is immune to the risks, think again. The latest research shows that vaping can seriously impact brain development, lung health, and lead to addiction — all at a time when teens are most vulnerable. Let’s break down the facts so you can protect your family from the hidden dangers of vaping.
Topics: tips for talking with your kids about drugs, communication, Informed Families, drug prevention, alcohol use, vaping, mindfullness
