With help from the wellness counselor, Fatima Hernandez, Oak Park High School recognized Red Rib-
bon Week from Oct. 23-31.

The first Red Ribbon Week was celebrated in 1988 and sponsored by the National Family Partnership, the national leader in drug prevention education and advocacy. Today, more than 80 million people show their support each year by wearing a red ribbon. The 2023 Red Rib-
bon Week theme is “Be kind to your mind. Live drug-free.”

In support of this movement, OPHS and the Wellness Center hosted events and activities that encouraged student involvement throughout the week.

“I believe having these events and activities are import-
ant to educate not only the youth but also parents,” Hernandez said. “Being aware of trends, facts and listening to stories can help someone who may be put in a situation where drugs, alcohol or tobacco are present, or being talked about know how to react.”

On Monday, Oct. 23, students had the opportunity to spread awareness for Red Ribbon Week in H-16 during lunch.

“I will have some signs here in the wellness center that students can create,” Hernandez said. “So, creating Red Ribbon Week messages about being drug-free will be displayed outside the school and then we can post pictures on social media about it.”

On Tuesday, students were tasked with wearing red. Participating students were asked two questions
about their commitment. “During lunchtime, I am going to have some students go around campus and interview students wearing red,” Hernandez said. “Just two questions: ‘What motivates you to be alcohol and drug-free?’ and ‘What is your natural high?’ If you participate, you get a little goodie.”

Wednesday offered Oak Park students information on Red Ribbon Week and the benefits behind choosing a drug and alcohol-free life.

“There is going to be a tabling event, probably by the gym, [featuring] two members of the [Tobacco Use Prevention/Substance Use Services Prevention Team] for Ventura County,” Hernandez said.

“They are going to do a table with pamphlets and games and talk to the students about any information they have.”

The last day of activities, Thursday, was “Team Up Against Drugs” day.

“We will encourage students to wear their favorite team jersey,” Hernandez said. “I’m going to have students do another interview activity [involving] finding students wearing the same jerseys and having them team up together. The activity is having students do a physical activity and then breathing through a straw to mimic what it is like if you are a smoker.”

There was a Fentanyl and Opioid Awareness webinar by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department on Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for anyone wanting to stay informed.

“Red Ribbon week is a time to educate, advocate and share resources,” Hernandez said.