Justice Speaks Podcast Episode #33

In this episode of Justice Speaks, JSI Co-Founder David Wallace, also known as the Traffic Safety Guy, interviews Rick Birt, CEO and President of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). Together, they discuss SADD’s mission to empower teens to make informed decisions and lead safer lives.

SADD’s Evolution

Founded over 30 years ago as Students Against Drunk Driving, SADD has grown to address a wide range of critical teen issues. Its three main focus areas are:

1. Traffic Safety and Teen Leadership
2. Substance Abuse Prevention
3. Personal Health and Safety

SADD’s grassroots approach allows chapters in every U.S. state and territory—and even New Zealand—to lead local initiatives while benefiting from resources provided by SADD National. Rick emphasizes the importance of teen-led efforts, with peer-to-peer interaction being a driving force for behavior change.

Traffic Safety Initiatives

SADD has prioritized raising awareness about critical traffic safety issues, including distracted driving, drowsy driving, and impaired driving.

• Distracted Driving: Nearly 30% of teens text while driving, and 70% use apps behind the wheel. SADD partners with TextLess; Live More to promote a screen-free lifestyle and emphasize the risks of distracted driving.

• Drowsy Driving: With 1 in 10 teens admitting to falling asleep at the wheel, SADD encourages parents and teens to prioritize sleep and understand its impact on road safety.

• 100 Deadliest Days: SADD provides resources to prepare teens and families for the summer months, a period with a spike in traffic-related teen fatalities.

Substance Abuse Prevention

SADD is actively addressing the opioid crisis by hosting town halls, engaging community leaders, and educating parents and teens on the dangers of substance misuse. Efforts include discussions on safe medication use, family communication, and the role of accessible medications in contributing to teen substance abuse.

Personal Health and Safety

SADD’s expansion into personal health was driven by teens recognizing the need to address issues like bullying, mental health, stress, and anxiety. SADD National provides resources to help teens navigate these challenges while fostering resilience and self-care.

Annual SADD National Conference

SADD’s annual conference is the largest youth-based prevention event in the country. Planned by teens, this year’s conference will take place in Tysons, Virginia, from June 24–27, 2023. A Capitol Hill day will highlight critical issues like impaired and drugged driving. The event aims to empower student leaders to inspire change in their communities.

Join the Movement

SADD’s ultimate mission is to create a safer world by working side by side with teens and their communities. To learn more, find a local chapter, or get involved, visit  SADD.org.