HEIDELBERG — Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign conducted in the country.

Although the start end dates can vary slightly depending on the organization and source, Red Ribbon Week generally takes place the last full week in October, with the weekends before and following the last full week included as appropriate celebration dates.

This year Red Ribbon Week is being celebrated October 17-25.

Heidelberg High School officially kicked off its celebration with a community program Monday.

Marie Parker and Rosie Ducksworth, co-principals at HHS, said Red Ribbon Week serves as a vehicle for communities and individuals to take a stand for the hopes and dreams of children. They said the week is designed to encourage everyone to make a commitment to drug prevention and education and a personal commitment to live drug-free lives.

Heidelberg Mayor Juan Barnett told the high school students that it’s important not to use or deal with drugs.

“Everybody is held accountable for their actions,” the mayor said. “Drugs is a problem in our community as well as throughout the nation.”

Barnett told the high schools students that it’s their choice to choose to be drug free.

Heidelberg Alderwoman Carolyn McFarland said the goal of city officials is to “try to keep drugs out of Heidelberg.”

Heidelberg Police Sgt. Cornell White said that is also the goal of the town’s law enforcement.

“It’s important to let the students and everyone know that we want this to be drug-free environment,” White said. “Drugs is a problem in every community. However, if we can start with the younger children, we may be able to combat it. ... Starting at an early age educating our children on the dangers of drugs can make a difference.”

Memry Bender, the 11th grade class president at HHS, said Red Ribbon Week is “a great start of awareness for the entire student body.

“Saying no to drugs is good for all people — especially young people,” Bender said. “Drugs are bad. Drugs can destroy your dreams.”

Jonathan Wilson, a senior, said he realizes the dangers of drugs.

“I know drugs are bad and I want to encourage others not to do drugs,” Wilson said. “Drugs are not good for you.”