Red Ribbon Week is in full swing in Smithtown. On Friday, the team at Horizons Counseling & Education Center collected Red Ribbon Week pledges from students at the Knox School and from students throughout the public school districts. Each pledge represents the student’s personal commitment to remain drug and alcohol free. The drawings are written pledges that will be on display at the Horizons Counseling and Education Center, and at Town Hall for the duration of Red Ribbon Week.
“Each year, Red Ribbon Week effectively brings awareness to the potential problems related to substance abuse in communities across the nation. Our Town Government is proud to be partnering with local community coalitions, schools districts, and other concerned citizens to encourage our communities to set positive examples for our youth and promote the benefits of living drug-free lives.” – Matthew Neebe, Director, Drug and Alcohol Counseling Services
In a special visit to Town Hall, Cub Scout Troop 340 took the pledge during a tour of local government on Friday as well. The troop learned all about Red Ribbon Week and it’s significance in a special message from Matthew Neebe and Kings Park Community Coalition in the kNOw’s Kim Revere.
“Red Ribbon Week is a positive way to acknowledge our young people and their commitment to living drug free. It is also an important way to have a conversation in the community about the dangers of drug use and the impact that it has on many families.” – Kelly DeVito, Youth Services Coordinator | Horizons Counseling & Education Center
Students and Youth groups can download the Red Ribbon Week Pledge online. The deadline for Red Ribbon Week submissions has been extended until 10/26. Those interested in participating can go to www.smithtownny.gov/horizons to download the templates and instructions on how to participate.
The Town of Smithtown, in collaboration with In the kNOw, the National Family Partnership, and Horizons Counseling and Education Center, will be participating in Red Ribbon Week from October 23rd to October 31st. This year’s theme; “Life is Your Journey… Travel Drug Free” is geared to inspire young students to think ahead and plan for a bright future, without addictive substances.
“On behalf of all of Smithtown, I would like to extend our gratitude to Kim Revere, who hand crafted the Red Ribbon Week signage at the Whisper the Bull monument. Ms. Revere has been a tremendous asset to our community, opening our eyes wide to the opioid epidemic, providing education and awareness to our children, parents and teachers.” – Supervisor Ed Wehrheim
Residents can view the Red Ribbon display at the Whisper the Bull monument through the end of the month. Various town buildings will also proudly display red ribbons, including Town Hall.
About Red Ribbon Week:
Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program. Every year, the initiative brings awareness for drug abuse to millions, interacting with students on a national scale during the last week of October. Residents can get involved by wearing red ribbons and participating in community anti-drug events. Young people can pledge to live a drug-free life on social media or other popular outfits.