Drug Awareness
Program

Each year the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, along with the National Family Partnership organization, pay tribute to and highlight the fight against drugs in our schools and communities. Red Ribbon week this year, is October 23 to 31. 

 

The idea for the Red Ribbon and all its activities, began all the way back in 1980s, when a drug enforcement agent was kidnapped and murdered by drug cartels in Guadalajara, Mexico. The Elks have recognized each year, a local law enforcement member for their efforts in the fight against drugs and it is named after the agent who sacrificed his life, Enrique “Kiki” Camarona. 

 

Kiki Camarona was born in Mexicali, Mexico and as a young boy, his family moved to Calexico, California. He grew up there and eventually went into the Marine Corps, served as a Calexico fireman, police officer and Indio County Deputy Sheriff. He later joined the D.E.A. and served as a criminal investigator in the war on drugs. In 1981 he and his family were assigned to the Guadalajara, Mexico resident office, where he eventually was close to exposing and taking down a multi-billion-dollar drug ring. 

 

Sadly, before he could finish the job, he was kidnapped on his way to lunch with his wife. About a month later his body was found on a local ranch and was brought home as a hero in the war on drugs. Due to his dedication and sacrifice, then President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan hosted Kiki’s wife to the White House to honor him. As a result, Red Ribbon week was formed and ever since then, wearing a Red Ribbon during this week, shows your support and remembrance of working to keep our kids and communities safe and free of drugs. It’s never been more important than right now with fentanyl pouring across our borders every day. 

 

You can show your support by wearing a Red Ribbon the week of October 23-31, 2024, and by supporting our Trunk-or-Treat event here at the lodge. We will have coloring books and crayons, an appearance by Elroy the Elk and of course plenty of candy for everyone as members decorate their trunks and pass out goodies! Save the date of Saturday, October 27 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm here at the lodge. Bring your kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews, come on, come all! (If you like to donate candy, drop it off in the lobby)

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