Many of Botetourt’s schools are participating this week in Red Ribbon Week that is sponsored by the Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition (RAYSAC) and Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare.

This annual ampaign provides an opportunity for schools and communities to unite in order to raise awareness of alcohol and other drug abuse.  Red Ribbon Week is also a opportunity for students, teachers, staff, parents and our communities to promote healthy youth development and make positive choices.

The Red Ribbon Campaign for Drug-Free Youth was initiated in 1985 following the murder of Federal Agent Enrique Camarena by drug traffickers. The red ribbon was designated as the symbol of intolerance of illegal drug use and a commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. It is an ongoing national campaign with the last week in October being designated as Red Ribbon Week.

This year’s theme is “Your Future is Key, So Stay Drug Free.” Twenty-five schools in the Roanoke Valley are competing for one of six Red Ribbon Week awards.

Also, area elementary students will participate in a poster contest and middle and high school students will participate in a media contest.

The week will be celebrated with a candlelight ceremony Sunday, Nov. 12 at 3:30 p.m. at Hotel Roanoke. The ceremony will be to remember those whose lives have been affected by alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and to recognize this year’s Red Ribbon Week Celebration winners.