Empowering Fourth Graders through Creativity
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) has officially launched an exciting invitation for fourth-grade students across the state to participate in the 2026 Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs Bookmark Contest. This creative initiative encourages students to express themselves through original artwork that promotes healthy and drug-free lifestyles, setting the stage for a vibrant community effort.
Celebrating Last Year's Winners
The contest not only fosters creativity but also celebrates past contributions. Last year's grand prize winners, Adrian Camilo from John F. Kennedy Elementary School and Madison Gunsch from McDivitt Elementary School, brought their artistic vision to life, leading a wave of positivity. Their inspiring designs, which emphasized fun alternatives to substance use, were seen on over 40,000 bookmarks distributed throughout New Jersey.
Quotes from Leadership
Angelo M. Valente, the Executive Director of PDFNJ, passionately shares, “This contest is a great way to empower young students to be leaders in prevention. By encouraging them to express what a healthy life means to them, we give them the opportunity to inspire their peers and take a stand against substance use.” His commitment to fostering community awareness highlights the importance of supporting youth in making informed choices.
Submission Details for Students
Submissions for the contest will be accepted until December 12, 2025, offering plenty of time for creative minds to develop their artwork. All fourth-grade students in New Jersey are eligible to participate, making it a widely inclusive opportunity for young artists to showcase their talents.
How to Get Involved
Students wishing to enter the contest can find all the necessary rules and submission details on the official PDFNJ website. This initiative is an excellent way for students not only to engage in a fun project but also to contribute to the vital message of preventing substance use.
About the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey
Known for its comprehensive statewide advertising campaign aimed at substance use prevention, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey operates as a coalition involving professionals from diverse sectors including communications and government. Their collective mission is to diminish the demand for illicit substances in New Jersey via powerful media communication. Remarkably, over $200 million worth of broadcast time and print space has been dedicated to the Partnership’s campaign, marking a significant achievement in New Jersey’s public service advertising history.
Since its foundation, the Partnership has proudly received 232 awards in advertising and public relations from various media organizations at national, regional, and statewide levels, embodying its commitment to community health initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs Bookmark Contest?
This contest encourages fourth-grade students to create artwork that promotes healthy, drug-free choices through original bookmark designs.
Who can participate in the contest?
The contest is open to all fourth-grade students across New Jersey.
What is the deadline for submissions?
All submissions must be sent in by December 12, 2025.
What happened to last year's winners?
Last year's winners' designs were featured on 40,000 bookmarks distributed throughout New Jersey, highlighting their positive messages.
How can I find out more about the contest?
For detailed rules and submission guidelines, students should visit the official PDFNJ website.
