North Port highlights DeFi teen prevention program as it proclaims Red Ribbon Week

The City Commission proclaimed Oct. 23–31, 2025 as Red Ribbon Week and heard a detailed description of DeFi, a youth prevention program operated by the North Port Parks and Recreation Department.

"DeFi isn't just a program. It's a movement led by our teens," Trish Sturgis, assistant director of Parks and Recreation, told the commission. She said DeFi partners with local businesses, schools and organizations to provide students in grades 6 through 12 with education and activities that support drug‑free choices. Sturgis introduced Kevin Mace, the department’s new DeFi coordinator, who outlined program logistics and recruitment.

Mace told the commission that prevention matters and cited research about cost savings from prevention spending. The transcript records the coordinator summarizing prevalence and cost material and encouraging students to register with parental permission; the recording also provided a city website link for registration. Sturgis emphasized community partnerships and volunteer support for the program.

The proclamation recognizes the role of community prevention and encourages volunteer participation and youth engagement during Red Ribbon Week. The transcript does not show any ordinance, funding vote or formal policy change tied to the proclamation; the item was informational and promotional.