Student Artists Showcase Red Ribbon Week “Drug Free Looks Like Me” Artwork in a Virtual Gallery Expo
The Town of Smithtown is now showcasing Red Ribbon Week Artwork from budding artists who submitted their “Drug-Free Looks Like Me” interpretations in a virtual art gallery. The original works of art are now on display via the Town of Smithtown Youth and Community Alliance webpage. Each student submitted artwork to bring awareness about alcohol and drug use, which has reached epidemic levels, in honor of Red Ribbon Week, which runs from October 23rd through the 31st.
“We were so pleased to receive such an enthusiastic response from the community on this year’s Red Ribbon Week Campaign. The submissions provided us with some very creative artwork that we are pleased to display on the Youth and Community Alliance website. A special thanks to all of the young people who submitted their artwork online and to Commack Middle School’s health class students who participated and submitted great artwork for the campaign.” - Janine Marc-Anthony, Youth Services Coordinator in the Town’s Youth Bureau
The Town of Smithtown Horizons Counseling and Education Center, in partnership with the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau, asked students (K-12) throughout the township to create a self-portrait using the Red Ribbon Week theme; Drug Free Looks Like Me. Community Service credits were provided to those who participated.
According to RedRibbon.org, children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those whose parents do not. Yet, only a quarter of teens surveyed report having these types of conversations. Alcohol and drug use has reached near epidemic levels, and it is important to be open and honest about these issues so that the stigma of addiction is taken away.
The online gallery is now live through the official Town of Smithtown Youth & Community Alliance website. To view the gallery, visit: https://www.smithtownny.gov/539/Youth-Community-Alliance-of-Smithtown
About the National Red Ribbon Week Campaign:
National Family Partnership is the sponsor of the National Red Ribbon Week Celebration. They are helping citizens across the country come together to keep children, families and communities safe, healthy and drug-free, through parent training, networking and sponsoring the National Red Ribbon Campaign. It is an ideal way for people and communities to unite and take a visible stand against drugs. Show your personal commitment to a drug-free lifestyle through the symbol of the Red Ribbon, October 23-31. Visit www.redribbon.org to learn more about Red Ribbon Week and to get helpful tips regarding talking to your kids about drugs. The life you save may be that of your own child or a dear friend.