The U.S. centers celebrate Red Ribbon Week by redoubling their efforts. Through school presentations, distribution of drug education materials, and participation in many community based activities and events, they broadly distribute the message of "a drug-free life." "Red Ribbon Week"t began as a grassroots tribute to DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) hero, Special Agent Enrique Camarena, who was murdered by drug traffickers.

Within weeks of his death in March of 1985, Camarena';s Congressman and a high school friend launched a Camarena Club in his hometown of Imperial Valley, California. Other clubs continued to spring up.

Club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans. From these clubs emerged the Red Ribbon Week Campaign. Red Ribbon Week is now nationally recognized and celebrated to further the cause for which Camarena gave his life.

It is also a symbol of support for the DEA';s efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs. By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs.

The U.S. centers celebrate Red Ribbon Week by redoubling their efforts. Through school presentations, distribution of drug education materials, and participation in many community based activities and events, they broadly distribute the message of "a drug-free life.

" The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that drug use in the workplace costs employers approximately $81 billion annually in lost time, accidents, health care and workers'; compensation costs. -Substance abusers are six times more likely than their coworkers to file a worker';s compensation claim. -60% of employed drug users work for smaller companies. -30% of drug abuse in the workplace involves prescription drugs.

More and more companies are addressing this problem by implementing a drug-free workplace program, consisting of drug education and training for workers and supervisors as well as employee assistance for those already involved with substance abuse.

For help with overcoming drug and alcohol addiction or to request drug education personnel to your school or group, contact the
www.DrugAddictionHelpLine.com.