Safe Sober Celebrates 36 Years of Empowering Teens to Make the Right Choice

For 36 years, the Safe Sober initiative at Daggett Shuler has been encouraging young people to make the right choice to abstain from alcohol and drugs. What began as a prom-season initiative has grown into a year-round movement that continues to positively impact the lives of thousands of students and families throughout the Triad.

As Safe Sober celebrates its 36th anniversary, the program remains focused on its mission of helping teens navigate challenges, resist negative influences, and build a strong foundation for their future.

A Tradition of Making the Right Choice

Founded by Attorney David Daggett, Safe Sober was created to encourage students to make smart decisions during prom season, a time when many young people face increased peer pressure and risky situations. Over the years, the program has expanded far beyond a single event and evolved into a community-wide effort dedicated to supporting youth year-round.

“Safe Sober has always been about lifting up our young people,” said David Daggett. “For 36 years, we’ve encouraged students to make the right choice, and they continue to inspire us with their strength and commitment to the Safe Sober pledge.”

Today, the program’s message remains as relevant as ever: leadership, guidance, and direction to make positive decisions can help young people create brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

The Safe Sober Teen Center Open at the William G. White Jr. Family YMCA

One of the most significant developments in the program’s history has been the creation of the Safe Sober Teen Center at the William G. White Jr. Family YMCA in Winston-Salem.

The Teen Center provides a dedicated space where local teens can connect with mentors, participate in activities, develop leadership skills, and seek out support from trusted adults. The center serves as a hub for positive engagement and personal growth throughout the year.

Richard Daniels, Executive Director of the William G. White Jr. Family YMCA and Vice President of Community Engagement, stressed the importance of investing in young people: “The Safe Sober Teen Center is a living example of what happens when a community invests in its young people,” he said. “We are honored to provide a space where teens can find support, encouragement, and direction all year long. Together, we’re helping shape the next generation of leaders.”

Celebrating the Class of 2026

As the Class of 2026 celebrates graduation and prepares for the next chapter of their lives, Safe Sober is recognizing their accomplishments and encouraging graduates to continue carrying the program’s message forward.

While graduation marks an exciting transition, it can also bring new responsibilities and challenges. Whether students are entering college, beginning careers, serving in the military, or pursuing other opportunities, the principles of leadership and accountability remain important.

“Graduates, we are proud of you,” Daggett said. “Keep choosing leadership, keep choosing responsibility, and keep choosing the right path.”

The Importance of Summer Support

While school may be ending for the year, the need for guidance and support does not disappear when summer begins. In fact, many students face increased exposure to negative peer pressure and risky behaviors during the summer months when school is out of session. Without the structure and daily support systems that schools provide, young people often benefit from additional opportunities to stay connected with positive influences.

Programs at the Safe Sober Teen Center help fill that gap by offering mentorship, activities, and a safe environment where students can continue developing healthy relationships and decision-making skills.

Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough emphasized the importance of staying connected throughout the summer: “The Safe Sober message is just as important in the summer as it is during the school year,” Kimbrough said. “We want every teen to stay safe, stay smart, and stay connected.”

Supporting Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being

Today’s youth face a variety of challenges that can impact their emotional well-being. Research shows that nearly 40% of students experience signs of mental distress, making community support and mentorship more important than ever.

The programs offered through the Safe Sober Teen Center create opportunities for teens to build confidence, strengthen resilience, and develop a greater sense of self-worth. Just as importantly, they connect young people with mentors and mental health professionals who can guide them during difficult times.

These relationships can have a lasting impact on a teen’s life, helping them feel supported, understood, and empowered to overcome challenges.

“The work is just beginning,” Daniels said. “It’s amazing to see how much a caring mentor can impact the life of one of our teens.”

Looking Ahead

As Safe Sober celebrates 36 years of service, its mission remains unchanged: helping young people make positive choices and empowering them to become leaders in their communities.

The program’s success would not be possible without the support of students, parents, educators, community partners, law enforcement agencies, mentors, and volunteers who continue to champion its message.

Learn More About Safe Sober

At Daggett Shuler, we are proud to sponsor Safe Sober and support the countless young people whose lives have been positively impacted by the program over the past three decades. Together, we can continue building a brighter future by helping the next generation stay strong, connected, and safe. To learn more about Safe Sober, its programs, and opportunities to get involved, visit SafeSober.com.