Red Ribbon Week

Each October, the City of Scotts Valley celebrates Red Ribbon Week to further our commitment to a drug free community. Red Ribbon Week originated after D.E.A. Agent Enrique Camarena was murdered by drug traffickers while on duty in Mexico in 1985.

As a result of his death, Red Ribbon Week was initiated to honor his sacrifice and to encourage others to take a stand against drugs. Community by community, the symbolism quickly caught on; Camarena's murder served as a catalyst, calling people to action and to make a visible commitment by wearing and displaying Red Ribbons to show the nation's intolerance of drugs.

Since the first National Red Ribbon Week Celebration in 1988, over 120 million people have joined the ranks of those who are celebrating their choice to live healthy, drug-free lives. Scotts Valley Police Department traditionally takes the leadership role during Red Ribbon Week by spearheading a planning committee for the week's events.

The goal of this committee is to unite all segments of the community: parents, youth, schools, religious organizations, businesses, law enforcement, government, service organizations, media, senior citizens, and social service organizations in a combined effort toward a drug-free community. This committee plans the events for the week, such as the kick-off event, school assemblies, and a main community event at the end of the week.

For more information on Red Ribbon Week and other Juvenile Programs contact Jan McKeever at 831/440-5657.

Sergeant John Hohmann with students at a

Red Ribbon Week rally.