In Tulsa County, the annual Tree of Life holiday display is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of drunk driving. This year, the Tulsa Health Department’s Regional Prevention Coordinator Program (RPC) and Stop DUI Task Force are partnering to raise awareness about this issue through the Tree of Life.

Community members are invited to share a photo of their loved ones lost due to a drunk driving incident, which will be included on the ornaments for the Tree of Life that will be showcased inside Woodland Hills Mall beginning in December. The goal is to give a face to the lives lost due to alcohol abuse, and help people see the true impact that this behavior can have in their community.

The Tree of Life has been an important part of raising awareness about this issue since 2014. It serves as a symbolic reminder of the number of families who are missing a loved one during the winter holiday season due to a drunk driving accident. Visitors to Woodland Hills Mall can sign a pledge card near the tree to make a personal commitment to abstain from drinking and driving. People who consume alcohol should do so responsibly and make plans for sober drivers or use ride-sharing services.

Photos can be submitted digitally through the Tulsa Health Department website or dropped off at three locations of the Tulsa Health Department during business hours between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm: James O. Goodwin Health Center, Central Regional Health Center, and North Regional Health and Wellness Center. Submissions must be received by December 8, 2023 if submitting digitally, or by drop-off before business hours on that day if submitting physically. All pictures are welcomed; however, digital copies are encouraged for easier submission process.