EVENTSRED RIBBON WEEKThe Coalition hosts Lee County's multi-faceted celebration drug-free lifestyles during Red Ribbon Week. Red Ribbon Week is observed in 90,000 communities across America during the last full week of October.
Red Ribbon Week can trace its origins to 1985, when dedicated and popular Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique Camarena, days away from identifying high-level kingpins of a Mexican-American drug pipeline, was brutally murdered by drug traffickers in Mexico.
Inspired by Agent Camarena's life and steadfast belief that one person can make a difference, youth groups in the Southwest US soon organized to memorialize his life's work.
In 1988 the National Federation of Parents (now Informed Families) adopted Agent Camarena's life as the focal point of a national drug abuse prevention campaign. They used the red ribbon as their symbol to eliminate the demand for drugs, and Red Ribbon Week grew to be celebrated by over 90,000 communities across the US. RED RIBBON LUNCHEONThe annual gathering of youth and community leaders committed to drug-free living, the Red Ribbon Luncheon is held during the last week of October. KIKI CAMARENA AWARDHonoring an individual or organization which has demonstrated outstanding commitment in preventing youth substance abuse. This award honors U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Agent, Kiki Camarena, who lost his life in the line of duty while breaking up a Mexican drug-trafficking cartel. OERTER TROPHY CONTESTHonoring Al Oerter, four-time Olympic Gold Medalist, this contest accepts nominations from public and private school athletic directors and coaches for youth who not only excel at an individual (not team) sport, but who also exhibit excellence in academics and personal character. Trophy awarded by Al Oerter at the Red Ribbon Luncheon. COALITION ART AWARDLocal High School students involved in the arts (visual, drama, music) submit photos or video of their work. Students must excel in the arts as well as exhibit excellence in academics and personal character. Trophy is awarded during the Red Ribbon Luncheon. PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT CONTESTHigh School students are challenged to create a 30 to 60 second public service announcement video with a strong drug-free message aimed at their peers. ANTI-DRUG DOOR DECORATING CONTESTDuring the month of October, Middle School teachers in Lee County along with their students are asked to decorate their classroom door with and "Anti-Drug" message. The teachers from the best 6th, 7th & 8th grade class in the county receive an award at the Red Ribbon Luncheon. The winning students receive a classroom pizza party. LEE COUNTY RED RIBBON SCHOOL (NEW IN 2006!)Participating schools must create a school-wide anti-drug campaign that educates and motivates children to lead drug-free lives. The winning Elementary School Principal will be honored during the Red Ribbon Luncheon LEE COUNTY DRUG HOUSE ODYSSEY This realistic walk-through drama teaches youngsters and families the importance of making good choices like choosing not to abuse drugs and alcohol. In 2008, Lee County Drug House Odyssey will be held April 1, 2, and 3 at Cape Christian Fellowship located at 2110 Chiquita Blvd. South. Over the 3 day period teachers will bring in students for a field trip between 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Space is limited so teachers should contact the Coalition's office to register in advance.) At night the event is open to the general public from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Coalition is coordinating the event with the assistance of the following participating organizations: Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Lee Memorial Hospital, The City of Cape Coral and its Police and Fire Departments, Fort Myers Police, Lee County Public Schools, Lee County Emergency Medical Services, Cape Christian Fellowship, District 21 Medical Examiner, State Attorney’s Office 20th Judicial Circuit and Southwest Florida Addiction Services. Some 5,000 people are expected to attend throughout the 3 days. THANK YOU SPONSORS FOR YOUR SUPPORT
For Information on Coalition Events, Contact: (239) 573-8747 | 
