In 1988, National Family Partnership (NFP) sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Celebration, serving “as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities.” Millions have been reached for their efforts and “its network of individuals and organizations continue to deliver the message of hope to millions of people every year.”
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.
Area schools participate in Red Ribbon Week each year. Shown above are students from Louise Durham, Holly Harshman, Mena Middle and High Schools, showing their support at their annual Red Ribbon Pep Rally in Bearcat Stadium.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JIMA HOLDER
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

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