Red Ribbon Week

Description

In Episode 10 of Awkward Conversations, “Red Ribbon Week”, Jodie and Amy talk to Myrna Camarena, retired federal employee from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, about Agent Kiki, Myrna's brother, shedding light on his tragic death. Myrna also shares the story behind wearing the red ribbon, a symbol with a powerful message.

As the episode unfolds, Myrna explores the messages Kiki would convey to young people today, emphasizing the importance of staying away from drugs, with a focus on prevention starting at home. They discuss the vital role of relationships and community support in keeping our youth drug-free. Additionally, they delve into how parents can actively get involved in drug prevention efforts.

Elizabeth Golshteyn, Director of Marketing and Communications for National Family Partnership, highlights the history of the National Family Partnership and Red Ribbon Foundation, dating back to 1988, and its continued relevance throughout the year.

Throughout the discussion, Bill Bryan, Director of the Elks Drug Awareness Program, offers insight into the various resources for children and parents provided by Elks DAP.

Key Takeaways:

Red Ribbon Week promotes drug-free communities and educates youth on substance abuse.
Agent KiKi's story symbolizes personal commitment to the campaign.
Drug-free living starts at home and within supportive communities.
Parents are encouraged to actively engage in Red Ribbon Week and have open conversations with their children about substance abuse.
Bill Bryan emphasizes online safety and the importance of resources for parents and children.
The National Family Partnership (NFP) provides resources, with a focus on securing medications and fostering positive influences.

Jodie Sweetin is an actress, author, and advocate, best known for her role as Stephanie Tanner on the iconic sitcom "Full House" and its sequel "Fuller House". In 2009 she penned her memoir, "unSweetined", which chronicles her journey through addiction and into recovery. With her frank and open approach, Jodie has emerged as a compelling speaker and advocate who now seeks to use her platform and experiences to educate others and reduce the stigma associated with addiction and recovery. @jodiesweetin

Amy McCarthy, LICSW, is a Director of Clinical Social Work at Boston Children's Hospital’s Division of Addiction Medicine. She has been working in the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program since 2019. @amymccarthylicsw

Myrna Camarena is a retired DEA agent with 35 years of service. Born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, and immigrated to Calexico, CA, at age 2. Fluent in English and Spanish. Dedicated to assisting the elderly with governmental forms and transportation needs. Championed the Red Ribbon Campaign since 1986 in honor of her brother, Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, who was kidnapped and murdered in Mexico in 1985. Congress designated the last week in October to celebrate the Red Ribbon Campaign. She has spoken at schools, organizations, and government agencies in 16 states and abroad. Enjoys physical fitness, gardening, and retired life.

Bill Bryan is the Director of the Elks DAP.

Elizabeth Ann Golshteyn, MPA is the Director of Marketing and Communications for National Family Partnership. Elizabeth is a Graduate of Florida International University with a Master of Public Administration with a Graduate Certificate in Public Finance, Procurement, Contract and Project Management. Also, she has an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. Elizabeth has extensive experience in Government/Non-Profit. She was the lead Project Manager for a Statewide Initiative, Project Opioid where she facilitated, established, and developed a Community Response Team (CRT) for Miami-Dade County comprised of leaders to share community trends and utilize resources from the different sectors to ensure an established task force to improve the community’s well-being.

Elks: As a 150-year-old organization, they are 100% inclusive with a membership of close to 1 million diverse men and women in over 2,000 Lodges nationally, and while they consider themselves faith based, they are nondenominational and open to all creeds. The Elks have always prided themselves on civic duty, and the Elks Drug and Alcohol Prevention (DAP) program is the nation's largest all volunteer Kids Drug & Alcohol Use Prevention program. The Elks are also strong supporters of our brave men and women in the military, having built and donated the nation's first VA Hospital to the U.S. government. The Elks have donated more than $3.6 billion in cash, goods, and services to enrich the lives of millions of people!

DEA: The United States Drug Enforcement Administration was created in 1973 by President Nixon after the government noticed an alarming rise in recreational drug use and drug-related crime. A division of the Department of Justice, DEA enforces controlled substances laws by apprehending offenders to be prosecuted for criminal and civil crimes. DEA is the largest and most effective antidrug organization in the world, with 241 domestic locations in 23 field divisions and 93 international field divisions in 69 countries.