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  The Red Ribbon Campaign is an annually themed year-long effort to increase awareness about the negative effects of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and to promote safe and drug free environments for everyone. It is kicked off at the Red Ribbon Breakfast during the national Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31).  The Campaign serves as a tool for involving all sectors of the community in the process of prevention.  The 2008-2009 Red Ribbon Campaign theme is "Vote Yes For A Drug Free Future." The campaign encourages everyone in our community to take a collective stand against underage use of alcohol and all use of illegal drugs.

  The Northeast Community Challenge Coalition (NECC) will spearhead this Campaign in the City of Blue Ash, the City of Montgomery, Sycamore Township and Symmes Township.

  The campaign originated to honor the work and memory of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique Camarena who was murdered by drug traffickers in 1985. The first Ohio Red Ribbon Celebration took place in 1988. The Celebration has become the annual catalyst for no tolerance for drugs in our schools, work places and communities. The Red Ribbon symbolizes a commitment to healthy, drug- free lifestyles.

  The NECC Coalition will support this campaign by promoting drug-free, healthy lifestyles and caring communities through presenting a unified and visible commitment to caring and drug-free communities through awareness, educational programs and community involvement. The NECC Coalition will strive to mobilize every sector of the community to unite in changing our community’s social norms, resulting in a society where illegal use of drugs and alcohol is not acceptable. The NECC Coalition Community-Wide Asset Initiative will promote positive values, which promote positive youth development.

  The Red Ribbon Breakfast Seminar benefits the Howard M. Barns Youth Memorial Scholarship Fund.  Additional donations may be sent to:

Attn: Treasurer
Northeast Community Challenge Coalition
P.O. Box 42387
Cincinnati, Ohio 45242

(more details to follow)

  Through the NECC resource Room, the Coalition provides sector and age-specific educational materials that promote drug free lifestyles and caring communities.  Community sector trainings are also available.  For more information, please visit http://www.necchealthycommunity.org or contact the NECC office @ 513-489-2587.