Red Ribbon Week

By: Sarah Frey

During the week of October 23-31st, Van Buren Youth Leadership council members are taking a stand against alcohol, drugs, and tobacco during Red Ribbon Week.

           

Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 after the kidnapping and murder of Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique Camarena. Soon after the news was delivered to Camarena’s hometown of Calexico, CA the community joined together to mourn the loss of his life. The community placed red ribbons throughout their community. By doing this they became a voice of prevention in reducing the demand for illegal drugs in the United States, as well as the use of illegal substances. In 1988 Red Ribbon Week was nationally recognized by Ronald and Nancy Reagan.

The Youth Leadership Council does many activities during Red Ribbon Week. Members of the council plan on placing red ribbons around the community, making banners for students to sign pledging to stay substance free, and being on air for a live radio broadcast discussing Red Ribbon Week.

The sole purpose of Red Ribbon Week is to spread awareness and promote the prevention of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco abuse not only for our community, but for our nation. 

YLC Middle School Red Ribbon Week

By: Taylor Thornsberry, Annalyssa Noll, Mallory Markley, Julia Mast, Erin Tedrow, and Shayna Sprinkle

This week is Red Ribbon Week. Red Ribbon Week is a week for people to stand up against drugs. Red Ribbon Week is from October 23rd-31st. It is now the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation. This is an ideal way people can show their personal commitment to a drug free lifestyle. This year’s theme is, "Love Yourself Be Drug Free." The theme of Red Ribbon Week changes every year, the themes help broadcast the behaviors of drug free people.

The Van Buren Middle School 8^th grade YLC members are doing many different activities; one of the activities is tying red ribbons on trees. We are doing this to make sure people see these all around Keosauqua to remind them about being drug free. Our goal is for parents to see these and use them as a reminder to talk to their kids about making good choices not to do drugs or drink alcohol. We also think that everyone should be aware of what drugs do to your body, and how they affect their lives. Middle school members will be spreading this message throughout the week with daily announcements and activities. Whenever you see a red ribbon we hope it reminds you to be drug and alcohol.

           

For more information on Red Ribbon Week or any YLC activities you may contact the SAFE Coalition office at 319-293-6412 or via email at info@vabsafecoalition.com.