Accessibility Tools

#SafeSummerSeries 2026

This summer, Safe & Sound Hillsborough is inviting students in grades 6-12 across Hillsborough County to use social media for something positive and impactful!  

How the Challenge Works

African american woman talking about her mental health on a group therapy session

Use Your Voice

Instead of following trends, create them. Use your platform to share messages that matter.

Teamwork, support and sports with basketball man for planning, community and mission. Workout, fitn

Create for Change

Create a short video that spreads a positive message and encourages others to make safe, healthy choices this summer.

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Be Recognized

Students who participate will have opportunities to earn prizes, collaborate with peers, and be recognized for making a difference.

STEP 1: SUBMIT YOUR VIDEO

Create a 30-second video by yourself or with your friends focused on one of the Safe Summer Series campaign topics:

Submission Deadline: June 20, 2026

Eligible students will receive a $25 stipend for their individual submission.

STEP 2: VOTE & JOIN A TEAM

After the submission period closes, all eligible students will be invited to a special screening event. At this event: 

Each team will consist of approximately 10 students.

Teams will work together to create a powerful message that promotes positive choices and community impact.

STEP 3: SHARE YOUR PSA

Once your team’s PSA is posted on Safe & Sound’s Instagram, it’s time to spread the word. The teams with the most Instagram likes and reposts will take home the top prizes!

See Your Story on The Big Screen!

Every student who participates in #SafeSummerSeries will be invited to our Safe Summer Video Awards Event

Individual submissions will be featured throughout the event, the Top 10 team PSAs will be showcased, and the Top 3 teams will be recognized based on Instagram likes and reposts.

Top 3 PSA Final Prizes

1st Place Team

$200 per youth

2nd Place Team

$150 per youth

3rd Place Team

$100 per youth

Need Ideas For Your Video?

Here are a few formats you can use:

Day in the Life

Show your hobbies, summer routines, sports, or the people and places that help you stay on the right path.

Get Ready With Me

Get ready while sharing a message about making positive choices, staying safe, or supporting others.

Storytime

Share a real experience, lesson learned, or advice you would give to other teens.

Skit

Act out scenarios involving peer pressure, conflict resolution, bullying, or making difficult decisions.

Creative Showcase

Use dance, sports clips, editing transitions, music, art, or community highlights to share your message.

Positive Message

Use spoken word, direct-to-camera videos, affirmations, or encouragement to inspire others.

video Requirements

To be eligible, all videos must:

  • Be 30 seconds or less
  • Be filmed vertically (9:16 format)
  • Focus on one Safe Summer Series topic
  • Include appropriate language
  • Follow all community guidelines

The following content is prohibited:

  • Weapons (real or fake)
  • Violence or reenactments of violence
  • Threats or intimidation
  • Drugs or alcohol
  • Hate speech
  • Dangerous stunts
A person texting on a smartphone indoors, showing hands and device close-up.

Ready to Join the Challenge?

Students! Click here to download the required media release form and upload with your parent or guardian’s signature. 

Important Dates

June 13, 2026 | 7:00 PM
#SafeSummerSeries Kickoff
Join us at the Jackson Heights NFL YET Center for a co-ed event featuring a 7v7 flag football tournament, Madden Tournament, painting activities, and more.
June 13, 2026 | 7:00 PM
June 20, 2026 | 11:59PM
Individual Video Submission Due
Submit your individual or team video along with a completed Parent/Guardian Release Form.
June 20, 2026 | 11:59PM
Week of June 22, 2026 (To Be Announced)
Screening Event
Students who submit an eligible video will be invited to a screening event to collect their cash prize, vote on their favorite videos, and join a team of 10 to create a PSA.
Week of June 22, 2026 (To Be Announced)
Week of June 29, 2026 (To Be Announced)
Team Formation & Coaching
Teams will meet their coaches, brainstorm ideas, and begin creating their final PSA submission.
Week of June 29, 2026 (To Be Announced)
July 5 - July 18, 2026
Spread the Word
Your team's PSA will be posted on Safe & Sound Hillsborough's Instagram account. Share it with friends, family, classmates, and your community. The teams with the most likes and reposts will earn the top prizes
July 5 - July 18, 2026
Week of August 1, 2026 (To Be Announced)
#SafeSummerSeries Award Ceremony
Join us as we showcase student submissions on the big screen, celebrate participants, and award the Top 3 teams.
Week of August 1, 2026 (To Be Announced)

FAQs

No. However, students who participate in the engagement portion of the challenge may benefit from helping share and promote their team's PSA.

Students will be notified using the contact information provided during registration.

Yes. Parent or guardian consent is required before submissions can move forward in the competition process. Download the form here and attach it in your submission. 

Approved videos will be published through Safe & Sound Hillsborough's social media platforms (Instagram, Faceboko, & TikTok)

volunteer Opportunities

Safe & Sound Hillsborough is seeking community members to help support our youth-focused kickoff event. Volunteers play an important role in creating a safe, welcoming, and memorable experience for students participating in activities throughout the day.

Volunteer opportunities may include:

  • Coaching student teams
  • Event support
  • Mentorship
  • Community engagement
  • Awards and recognition events

Interested in volunteering? Contact:

info@safeandsoundhillsborough.org

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