Red Ribbon Week 2015

The Red Ribbon Campaign October 23-October 31

The Red Ribbon Campaign began in 1985 in response to the murder of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena which infuriated parents and youth in communities all over the country. These parents and youth began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the destruction and death caused by drugs in America. The National Family Partnership (NFP) organized the very first Nationwide Red Ribbon Campaign. The NFP provides drug awareness by sponsoring annual National Red Ribbon Campaigns.

This year's theme, "Respect Yourself. Be Drug Free.™", created by a middle school student in Ohio, sends a powerful, positive message to our children - and we invite you to join us in spreading that message. Did you Know... Children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don't, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations.

People all over the country are encouraged to participate during this week of awareness. There are numerous ways to be involved. First, sign the pledge to create a drug free America at http://redribbon.org/pledge/.

Another way to be involved is by entering the 2015 Red Ribbon Photo Contest. You can enter the contest now through November 3, 2015. The winners receive an iPad and $1,000 for your school! There are two ways to enter: 1) families can submit a photo of a home decoration and 2) schools can submit a photo of a school decoration. Enter your photo at http://redribbon.org/contest/enter/.

Lastly, you can donate to the Red Ribbon Campaign. One dollar invested in prevention saves seven dollars in treatment. Donate at https://redribbon.org/donate/.

Use this week to make a difference in your school and community. I'm wearing my Red Ribbon. Are you?