In 2026, the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) proudly marks a milestone: 25 years of impact. For a quarter century, the DEAEF has stood at the intersection of education, prevention, and hope, guided by one enduring belief. Knowledge saves lives, and young people, when supported and empowered, can build brighter, healthier futures.

This anniversary year is not a single moment, but a year-long reflection. It is a time to honor where we began, celebrate how far we have come, and recommit to the work ahead. Throughout 2026, the DEAEF will highlight the partnerships, programs, and people who have shaped its journey, while continuing to serve communities across the country with the same passion and purpose that inspired its founding.

A Foundation Built on Vision and Purpose

The DEAEF was established in 2001 with a clear and urgent mission: to educate the public on the many costs and consequences of illegal drugs and to provide meaningful, positive alternatives for youth. From the beginning, the DEAEF understood that prevention must go beyond messaging. It must engage young people where they are, through experiences that inspire confidence, creativity, discipline, and connection.

Over the past 25 years, this philosophy has guided the growth of the DEAEF’s national footprint. From its earliest initiatives to today’s expansive portfolio of youth and community programs, the DEAEF has continually adapted to meet evolving challenges while remaining grounded in its core values.

Central to this success has been the DEAEF’s longstanding partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Together, the DEA and the DEAEF have collaborated on impactful initiatives including the nationally recognized traveling exhibit Drugs: Costs & Consequences, youth programming aligned with DEA’s 360 Strategy, Operation Engage community partnerships, and Red Ribbon initiatives that reach families, educators, and students nationwide. These collaborations have amplified prevention education and extended its reach into schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces across the country.

Programs That Reach, Inspire, and Protect

At the heart of the DEAEF’s work are its youth programs: innovative, engaging initiatives that offer healthy alternatives to drugs while building life skills and resilience. The DEAEF Youth Dance Program, which began as a pilot initiative, has grown into a national model, reaching students in nearly 55 cities and positively influencing thousands of young people through movement, mentorship, and creative expression.

Building on that success, the DEAEF expanded its programming to include youth baseball, martial arts, and a wide range of additional activities such as art, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and leadership academies. Through partnerships formed under Operation Engage, the DEAEF has further broadened its impact with programs such as BabyScientist, Inc., Hooked on Fishing, and Big Screen to Prevent a Big Problem.

In addition, the DEAEF works with trusted national and local partners, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, to support youth mentorship and prevention-focused programming that strengthens protective factors for young people nationwide.

In 2026, DEAEF youth and community programs are projected to reach more than 100 cities nationwide, reflecting both the strength of its partnerships and the continued need for its work.

Beyond the United States, the DEAEF’s commitment has extended globally. International collaborations, from educational exhibits in Afghanistan developed with the U.S. State Department and the Colombo Plan to a lasting partnership with Taiwan’s CTBC Anti-Drug Educational Foundation, underscore the belief that prevention education is a shared global responsibility.

Honoring Our Founder: William F. Alden

As the DEAEF celebrates 25 years, it does so with deep gratitude and remembrance of William F. Alden, Founder of the DEAEF.

Bill was more than a founder. He was a mentor, a trusted leader, and a steadfast advocate for youth and community drug prevention. With more than 40 years devoted to drug enforcement and prevention, including service as Chief of DEA’s Office of Congressional and Public Affairs, Deputy Director of DARE America, and Chairman of the DEAEF Board, Bill brought integrity, experience, and heart to the DEAEF’s mission.

Bill’s passing in 2025 marked a profound loss, but his influence endures. Bill’s unwavering belief in education, compassion, and collaboration continues to shape the DEAEF’s values and direction. His legacy lives on in every program launched, every partnership formed, and every young life touched by the work he helped build.

Leadership for the Next Chapter

Today, the DEAEF is led by Jill L. Roberts, President and CEO, whose journey with the organization reflects both continuity and growth. Jill’s leadership is rooted in hands-on program development, beginning with her work founding a national afterschool dance initiative for at-risk youth. That work later evolved into the DEAEF Youth Dance Program.

Over the years, Jill has served the DEAEF in multiple leadership roles, helping expand youth programming, strengthen operations, and guide strategic growth. After joining the DEAEF in 2012, she spent nearly a decade building and leading programs before assuming the role of President and CEO in 2020, bringing with her a clear commitment to prevention through education and mentorship.

“Much of how I lead is due to personal experiences I have had in the field with youth and from what I learned from Bill,” Jill said. “As I move forward in my role as President and CEO, I vow to always remember why we do this work: to save lives and to help lead others toward happy, fulfilling futures.”

Supporting the DEAEF’s leadership is a dedicated Board of Directors chaired by The Honorable Michele M. Leonhart, former Administrator of the DEA. With decades of distinguished service in drug law enforcement and prevention, Michele brings invaluable perspective and advocacy to the DEAEF at a time when prevention education is needed more than ever.

Equally vital to the DEAEF’s success is its dedicated team. National leadership, regional managers, instructors, coaches, and community partners work together every day to bring prevention education to life in cities and communities across the country. Their commitment, creativity, and care ensure that programs are not only delivered, but deeply felt by the young people they serve.

Gratitude for Our Supporters

None of this work would be possible without the generosity of the DEAEF’s supporters. Over the past 25 years, individuals, corporations, and foundations have believed in the mission and invested in its success. The DEAEF extends heartfelt thanks to supporters including Walter Wang, The Michael and Lori Milken Foundation, The Geraty Foundation, CTBC Anti-Drug Educational Foundation, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, C&S Grocers, PepsiCo, Deterra, and the many other partners and donors whose contributions, large and small, have made a lasting difference.

Each gift represents a shared commitment to prevention, education, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Looking Ahead

As the DEAEF celebrates this milestone year, it does so with both pride and purpose. The past 25 years have demonstrated what is possible when vision, partnership, and dedication come together. The years ahead call for continued evolution, expanded reach, and renewed resolve.

Throughout 2026, the DEAEF invites its supporters, partners, and communities to reflect on this journey, honor its legacy, and celebrate the people who make this work possible. Together, we will continue striving to save lives, one step, one program, and one child at a time.