Red Ribbon Week begins Saturday

From Oct. 23 – 31, the MASH Coalition (Maricopa, Ak-Chin, Stanfield, Hidden Valley) will join other national organizations in recognizing Red Ribbon Week.

Red Ribbon Week was started in 1988 in commemoration of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a DEA agent who was fighting the drug wars in Mexico. It has since become an annual movement to help educate and support the youth of America against substance abuse. Red Ribbon Week also confronts other forms of destructive behavior such as underage drinking and smoking.

As part of the ongoing efforts of the MASH Coalition, local sponsors will be involved to help spread the awareness of MASH and Red Ribbon Week by giving complimentary packets that will be filled with fun and educational material for children of all ages.

“The harmful effects of drugs on young lives are well known,” Mayor Anthony Smith said. “Young people need to know they are special and not fall victim to those who exploit and abuse them. Our local MASH Coalition is an effective force in providing education and support to those fighting the battle against substance abuse.”

The MASH Coalition will be working with the Maricopa Police Department by visiting schools to help spread the message and explain the significance of Red Ribbon Week. Along with local sponsors, MASH will be handing out vouchers for Red Ribbon Week gift packets.

Visit a sponsor listed on the voucher to receive the complimentary packet. The Red Ribbon Week Packets will be filled with prizes and materials to help educate and support your child in making the right decisions. The Packets are also to help raise awareness of the MASH Coalition and their efforts in the City of Maricopa, Ak-Chin, Stanfield, and Hidden Valley communities.

Started in 2006, these communities formed MASH to help battle the methamphetamine epidemic. Since then they have expanded their message and have been engaged in a variety of events to get their message out to the youth. As well as their efforts in Red Ribbon Week, the MASH Coalition will continue to be active in coordinating events and will also be sponsoring the Second Annual Grad Bash for this year’s seniors at Maricopa High School. Last year, the event was successfully supported by volunteers and sponsors in providing a memorable celebration for the graduating seniors in a safe and drug-free environment.