Red Ribbon Week celebrates living drug-free and making healthy, positive choices. It unites communities, schools, and families in taking a stand against substance abuse. And whoever decided it should be the same week as Halloween really was a go-getter. Last week was a whirlwind for CYA, with a heap of events and projects that really gave us an opportunity to do what we love.
We kicked off Red Ribbon Week by making 9,000 Sticker Shock bags. Teens and their families helped put together paper bags that will go out to liquor stores, reminding buyers to please not give drinks to children — thanks.
Some of our amazing teen leaders also hosted assemblies at schools around the community, sharing information on prevention, making healthy choices, and supporting one another. Now, public speaking is the second most feared activity after death, but these guys rocked it. They even went straight from that event to holding a protest—well, “protest” is a strong word—on the Broadway Bridge, encouraging people not to drink and drive.
Outside the center, our team also kept busy. There was CYA Night at New Sweden Farms. That night at the corn maze, there was a fundraiser for SPaRC with a petting zoo, mini golf, s’mores, and more. We also got to meet up with a few of our partners, and it’s moments like those when you realize most people want to contribute to making the community better. We also participated in a trunk-or-treat, where we got to meet with families and see some of the greatest Halloween costumes. There were even a couple of parents dressed as “six” and “seven,” which, even after watching a YouTube video, we don’t really understand—but we assume it was clever.
Finally, we cannot forget our Halloween party at the center. There were treats, costumes, and a silent disco. If you’ve never observed a silent disco, you’re missing out. It’s a hoot.
Now, if this week can give us the opportunity for a nap, we’ll really call it a success.