Light & Unite Red, is a campaign led by Milwaukee County. In its second year, Light & Unite Red hopes to increase awareness about substance abuse among teens.
The campaign is part of National Drug and Alcohol Fact Week (January 23 – 29, 2017), which is an effort that unites communities across the nation to engage in prevention, encourage treatment and support recovery.
“In 2015, 255 people in Milwaukee County died from a drug-related overdose,” said County Executive Chris Abele. “These are our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters, our parents, neighbors and friends. Milwaukee County has resources available for individuals and families struggling with addiction. The Light & Unite Red campaign is an opportunity for us to raise awareness about how we can help.”
The Light & Unite Red committee consists of more than 25 health departments, schools, nonprofits and other community organizations who are working to provide information about drugs and alcohol to counteract the myths that teens learn from the internet, social media, TV, movies, music or from friends. Their efforts also target educators and parents, providing them with information on how to start conversations with their youth and connect them with resources for treatment and recovery.
Other activities planned for this week include special events at area high schools, social media blitzes, city-wide “wear red” days, and resource and information booths at Marquette basketball games and other community events. A full list of events can be found at www.lightunitered.org.
