How to Observe Red Ribbon Week

Observe Red Ribbon Week, part of the national Red Ribbon Campaign drug prevention program, and show your support for a drug-free America. This observation provides the backdrop for programs and activities designed to raise awareness and promote drug-free messages to children and their parents throughout the country. Here's how you can observe red ribbon week:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Find the date for Red Ribbon Week for the current year. The event is generally held the last full week in October (Oct. 23-31).

2. Learn the history of Red Ribbon Week, which traces its roots to California in 1985, where Congressman Duncan Hunter with teacher David Dhillon launched its precursor in area high schools. In 1988, Nancy Reagan chaired the first National Red Ribbon Week, proclaimed by the U.S. Congress.

3. Encourage your children or students to make a drug-free pledge. Have them decorate the pledge and display it during the week.

4. Talk to your child's teacher to see what the school is doing for Red Ribbon Week. Volunteer to help with the program or activities.

5. Wear a red ribbon during the week and make or buy extras for friends and family.

6. 
    

   Celebrate with red fruit punch, red-frosted cake and red fruits and veggies such as tomatoes, peppers and strawberries.