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
Use Your Voice
Instead of following trends, create them. Use your platform to share messages that matter.
Create for Change
Create a short video that spreads a positive message and encourages others to make safe, healthy choices this summer.
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:
- Choosing peace
- Avoiding violence
- Positive peer influence
- Mental health awareness
- Community pride
- Conflict resolution
- Safe summer activities
- Alternatives to risky behavior
Submission Deadline:July 31, 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:
- Students will vote on their favorite submissions
- Participants will be assigned to teams
- Teams will be paired with coaches and mentors
- Teams will collaborate to create a 2-minute Public Service Announcement (PSA)
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
Ready to Join the Challenge?
A signed Parent/Guardian Media Release Form is required and must be uploaded with your video submission.
Click here to download.
Submit Your Video & Release Form
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 UPDATED DEADLINE: July 6, 2026 | 11:59PM
Individual Video Submission Due
Submit your individual or team video along with a completed Parent/Guardian Release Form. UPDATED DEADLINE: July 6, 2026 | 11:59PM July 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. July 2026 (To Be Announced) July 2026 (To Be Announced)
Team Formation & Coaching
Teams will meet their coaches, brainstorm ideas, and begin creating their final PSA submission. July 2026 (To Be Announced) July 2026 (To Be Announced)
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 2026 (To Be Announced) 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
Do I need social media to participate?
No. However, students who participate in the engagement portion of the challenge may benefit from helping share and promote their team’s PSA.
How will I know if I am selected?
Students will be notified using the contact information provided during registration.
Do my parents need to sign anything?
Yes. Parent or guardian consent is required before submissions can move forward in the competition process. Download the form hereand 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
We’re looking for coaches!
Coaches will work alongside a team of students as they develop a 2-minute PSA for the next phase of the #SafeSummerSeries competition. Top teams will be recognized and awarded based on campaign engagement. Compensation will be provided.