Red Ribbon week is approaching! Red Ribbon is recognized every year between. October 23rd and October 31st

This national drug and alcohol awareness campaign began in the 1980’s to honor the memory and sacrifice of DEA Agent Enrique (Kiki) Camarena. Enrique graduated from a California high school in 1966. After serving in the Marine Corps for 2 years, Enrique became a civil servant. He served in various capacities, first as a firefighter, then police officer, deputy sheriff, and eventually as a Drug Enforcement Administration agent. The valued undercover agent earned

special awards and worked fearlessly to bring down a multi-billion-dollar drug pipeline for cocaine and marijuana. Sadly, he was unable to fulfill that goal when he was discovered by the cartel. Members kidnapped, tortured, and killed Agent Camarena in February of 1985 before he was able to expose the criminal enterprise. 

Friends, neighbors, and parents (tired of the death and destruction caused by illegal drug use), wanted to promote Kiki’s belief that one person can make a difference. They began wearing red satin arm bands and forming coalitions. In 1988 the National Family Partnership sponsored the first Red Ribbon Celebration and the movement still exists today, having reached millions of individuals with its messages of hope and prevention.

Hornell Area Concern for Youth participates in the campaign annually by providing banner signing events and education in Arkport, Canisteo-Greenwood, Hornell, and Jasper-Troupsburg school districts, as well as both youth centers.

Get involved by wearing a red ribbon and explaining the significance, downloading fun activities or signing the Youth Pledge at www.redribbon.org