Red Ribbon Awareness Night promotes positive, anti-drug message
Oct 23, 2018
Ryanne Tavares, 5, of Wareham, grabs some giveaways during the third annual Red Ribbon Awareness Night. Photo by: Matthew Bernat
Riley Johnson, 6, of Wareham, tries to win a prize at a table set up by members of the Wareham High School Key Club on Tuesday. Photo by: Matthew Bernat
There’s no easy way to combat substance abuse, but a Wareham teacher says one method is worth trying – stay busy.
“The area has so much to offer families and tonight is about bringing those groups and organizations into one place,” said Deanna Semple, who has organized Red Ribbon Awareness Night for the past three years.
Held in the Decas Elementary School gymnasium, the event featured 16 organizations, including a dance troupe, the young Marines, Scout groups, the Boys & Girls Club and more. The night coincided with Red Ribbon Awareness Week (Oct. 23 - 31), a national anti-drug campaign launched in 1985.
Semple said the idea behind Tuesday’s event was to showcase several organizations aimed at offering positive activities for kids to get engaged.
“It’s about showing the community all that our town has to offer,” said Semple. “My hope is to reach as many people as we can.”
Inside the gym, families wandered from table to table, playing games and accepting free items from a variety of organizations.
Ryanne Tavares, 5, of Wareham, said she was in awe of all the giveaways.
“There’s so many awesome things, I can’t resist!” she said.
