Join the Exciting Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs Contest
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) encourages fourth-grade students throughout the state to participate in the upcoming 2026 Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs Bookmark Contest. This initiative invites children to unleash their creativity by submitting original artwork that highlights positive, drug-free choices. Two exceptional designs will be chosen as winners and distributed across classrooms in New Jersey in 2026.
Celebrating Last Year's Success
In last year’s contest, the winning designs created by Adrian Camilo from John F. Kennedy Elementary School and Madison Gunsch from McDivitt Elementary School captivated audiences, showcasing fun alternatives to substance use. Their artwork reached thousands, appearing on 40,000 bookmarks across the state, providing inspiration and fostering healthy decision-making among peers.
Importance of Empowering Young Minds
Angelo M. Valente, the Executive Director of PDFNJ, emphasizes the contest’s role in empowering young people. “This contest is a fantastic opportunity to encourage students to become leaders in prevention,” Valente stated. “By allowing them to articulate what living a healthy life means, we are providing them the tools to inspire peers and take a public stance against substance use.”
How and When to Submit
Students interested in participating can submit their artwork until December 12, 2025. The contest is open to all fourth-grade students in New Jersey, making it accessible to a wide audience. Families and educators are encouraged to support children in this creative endeavor.
Getting Involved
To learn about contest rules and submission details, please visit the official website of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. Sharing this exciting opportunity with friends and relatives can foster a community rooted in healthy choices and creativity. It’s not just about drawing; it's about building awareness and promoting a movement of positivity and responsibility among young students.
Partnership’s Mission and Impact
Best known for its extensive substance use prevention advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a dedicated coalition of professionals from communications, corporate sectors, and government aimed at reducing the demand for illicit drugs in the state. Their impactful campaign has secured over $200 million in donated broadcast time and print space, establishing it as the largest public service advertising initiative in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception, the Partnership has been recognized with an impressive 232 awards from various media organizations for its contributions to public awareness and education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs Contest?
The contest invites fourth-grade students in New Jersey to submit original artwork that promotes healthy, drug-free choices.
Who can participate in the contest?
The contest is open to all fourth-grade students in New Jersey.
When is the submission deadline for artwork?
All submissions must be submitted by December 12, 2025.
What happens to the winning designs?
The winning designs will be printed on bookmarks and distributed across various classrooms in New Jersey.
How can I learn more about the contest rules?
For detailed contest rules and submission guidelines, please visit the official website of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
