Jefferson County Preventionist: Red Ribbon Week's Grassroot Beginnings

The origin of the Red Ribbon Campaign traces back to 1985, following the tragic murder of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. This initiative, begun by NFP (National Family Partnership), symbolizes a commitment to raising awareness

Enrique "Kiki" Camarena was a Drug Enforcement Administration Agent who was tortured and killed in Mexico in 1985.  In honor of Kiki's memory and his battle against illegal drugs, friends and neighbors began to wear red badges of satin. 

.  Parents then began to form coalitions using Camarena as their model while embracing his belief that one person can make a difference. These coalitions adopted the symbol of Camarena's memory, the Red Ribbon. Today, the Red

Ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities about the devastating impact of drugs.

In Jefferson County schools provide various activities and educational messages to students of all ages about the importance of making healthy choices. One of the key messages is about youth brain development. The brain is not completely developed until about twenty-five and the use of drugs (Alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, etc.) at an early age can cause damage to the brain.

Please support the schools and youth during this coming Red Ribbon Week with supportive messaging about substance misuse.