Event Description

The United States has the highest rate of overdose-related deaths in the world - with approximately 380 deaths per day.  Unfortunately, Ohio and the Columbus metropolitan area have been hit particularly hard by the drug/opioid epidemic totaling 5111 deaths in 2017 (2018 data not yet available); which ranks Ohio as second just behind West Virginia. 

These startling numbers are why The Central Ohio Young Marines have decided to hold its first (hopefully Annual) Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) 5k.  As a program for the youth of our nation ages 8-18 our primary focus is on Anti-Drug education followed by character & leadership development, community service & volunteerism and veteran’s service.  Teaching the boys and girls in our program about how gateway drugs and alcohol can lead to further issues with addiction.  How to “say no” and prepare them for social situations which they may run into issues.  We also spread this word through our work throughout the community, during family festivals and events that we participate in during the year.  The proceeds from this race will be used to continue and enhance community efforts/outreach as well as continue education programs for the Youth in our unit and community.

The run kicks off the annual Nationally recognized Red Ribbon week where more than 80 million people participate in Red Ribbon events each year. The campaign is a unified way for Young Marines and communities to take a stand against drugs and show intolerance for illicit drug use and the consequences that these illegal substances cause to all Americans.

Schools, businesses, the faith community, media, families, and community coalitions join together to celebrate the value of a drug-free, healthy lifestyle.

Our DDR teachings educate on the life and work of Kiki Camarena who was a Marine turned DEA Agent see his story below: