Healthy Communities of Clinton County has extended an invitation to the community to take a visible stand against drugs by celebrating Red Ribbon Week this week from Oct. 23 through Oct. 31.
Red Ribbon Week was founded to raise awareness of drug use and the problems that may face the community as a result of the presence of drugs as well as encourage parents, educators, business owners and community organizations to promote drug-free lifestyles.
The celebration kicked off this week with school activities, contests and themed days throughout Clinton County at the schools. Activities are scheduled throughout all of the Clinton County elementary schools.
“Red Ribbon Week encourages our entire community to adopt healthy, drug-free lifestyles,” Kristy Lawson and Tammy Koger said. “The campaign brings together parents, schools, and businesses as we look for ways to keep our youth and communities drug free.”
In 1985, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique S. “Kiki” Camarena was killed by drug traffickers. Shortly after his death, citizens from his hometown of Calexico, California, began wearing red ribbons to remember him and commemorate his sacrifice. The first official Red Ribbon Week celebration was created by the National Family Partnership in 1988. NFP continues to coordinate the campaign for families, schools and communities across the nation each year. Since then, the red ribbon has symbolized a continuing commitment to reducing the demand for illicit drugs in our communities.
“Red Ribbon Week gives us the opportunity to be vocal and visible in our efforts to achieve a drug-free community,” Lawson and Koger said. “Research shows that children are less likely to use alcohol and other drugs when parents and other role models are clear and consistent in their opposition to drug use and the misuse of prescription drugs.”
Visit GetSmartAboutDrugs.com for more information about Red Ribbon Week or contact Healthy Communities at 765-659-6063.
