A New National Focus on Prevention
On August 12, 2026, the White House officially proclaimed August 2026 as National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month, creating a new national opportunity to elevate the importance of preventing substance use before it begins. The proclamation emphasizes protecting young people, strengthening families and communities, and advancing quality, evidence-based prevention.
At Drug Free America Foundation, these principles are at the heart of our mission and the work we do year-round.
Read the Presidential Proclamation
Prevention Works
Primary prevention is about getting ahead of substance use before it starts. By strengthening protective factors, reducing risk factors, providing evidence-based education, and bringing communities together, prevention can help young people make healthy choices and create stronger, healthier communities.
Through education, professional development, prevention resources, youth engagement, research translation, and partnerships, Drug Free America Foundation works alongside our network to put prevention into action.
What’s Your Prevention Story?
This August, SAMHSA is inviting individuals, families, schools, workplaces, faith organizations, communities, and prevention organizations to tell their prevention stories, and we want our network to join in.
Share the programs, partnerships, people, and efforts making a difference in your community using the hashtags:
- #MyPreventionStory
- #PreventionMonth
- #SubstanceUsePrimaryPreventionMonth
Explore the 2026 Primary Prevention Month Toolkit
Prevention Continues Year-Round
Prevention doesn’t stop when August ends. Save the date and join us for upcoming opportunities to stay engaged:
An Evening of Impact | October 21st, 2026
Drug Free America Foundation’s annual fall fundraiser supporting the prevention, education, and outreach efforts that advance our mission throughout the year.
Learn more and get your tickets here.
Florida Prevention Advocacy Day | January 6th, 2027
Join prevention professionals and advocates from across Florida to elevate the importance of prevention and bring the prevention voice to policymakers and decision-makers. Info and registration soon to come!
National Prevention Summit | February 23rd & 24th, 2027
This special event brings together prevention professionals and partners to learn, collaborate, explore emerging issues, and strengthen effective approaches to substance use prevention. Info and registration soon to come!
Help Make Prevention Possible
Your support helps Drug Free America Foundation provide prevention education, resources, training, outreach, youth engagement, and collaborative initiatives throughout the year.
