Drug-Free Youth, also known as D-Fy, continues to make a lasting impact in North Port by empowering students in grades 6 through 12 to make responsible choices and live free from drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The program provides a positive, peer-supported environment where young people encourage one another to stay substance-free while embracing healthy, productive lifestyles.
With more than 13,000 school-aged residents in North Port, D-Fy offers meaningful opportunities for students to lead, mentor and make a positive difference in their schools and the broader community. Through mentoring programs, high school students guide middle school participants during crucial developmental years, participating together in service projects, activities and community events that prove fun and fulfillment can go hand-in-hand with a drug-free life.
The program rewards members’ commitment to staying substance-free with exclusive events, incentives and enriching experiences designed to reinforce their decisions. In doing so, D-Fy helps shape a community culture that celebrates youth who make healthy, responsible choices.
Founded in April 2010 by local residents and teachers, the North Port chapter of D-Fy came under the leadership of the North Port Parks & Recreation Department in 2025. The department continues to work closely with the program’s original organizers and volunteers to uphold its mission and expand youth engagement opportunities.
As part of its leadership development initiatives, D-Fy facilitates mentorship pairings between older and younger members and collaborates with local organizations to host workshops focused on decision-making, self-esteem, coping skills and resisting peer pressure. The program also partners with the city’s Recreation Division to support teen-focused offerings, including Teen Talk, Teen Camp, Fit Teen University and the Counselor-in-Training program.
This month, D-Fy will participate in Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23–31, the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness campaign. This year’s theme, “Life is a Puzzle. Solve it Drug Free,” encourages young people to make positive choices and build confidence. Local events at the Morgan Family Community Center include Drug Free Pledge Day on Oct. 27, a Drug Refusal Skill Session on Oct. 29 and a Prevention Session and Pizza Party on Oct. 31.
For information about membership or sponsorship opportunities, contact D-Fy Program Coordinator Kevin Mace at 941-396-0636 or KMace@NorthPortFL.gov.
