PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WVDN) – Governor Patrick Morrisey visited Blennerhassett Middle School to commemorate Red Ribbon Week and highlight West Virginia’s growing success in combating youth substance use through evidence-based prevention and education programs.
Joined by representatives from the West Virginia Department of Human Services, Westbrook Health Services, and school leaders, Governor Morrisey commended students, teachers, and community organizations for their role in building a healthier, drug-free future for West Virginia’s youth.
“We want to instill confidence in the next generation of West Virginians to make healthier choices throughout their lives,” said Governor Morrisey. “Prevention begins in the classroom, but it extends to every corner of our communities. We must do everything to empower our state’s young people to lead long and healthy lives.”
Governor Morrisey emphasized that prevention efforts are showing measurable results across the state. According to the West Virginia School Learning Environment Survey, youth substance use has dropped dramatically in recent years. Students reporting alcohol use dropped from 13.7% in 2019 to 3.95% in 2024, a nearly ten percent drop. Students reporting marijuana use also reported a decline during that same time period, from 9.4% to 4.3%.
“By treating prevention as a science and uniting schools, families, and community partners around proven strategies, we’re not only reducing substance use — we’re also helping to build resilience and create environments where our youth can thrive, learn, and build happier, more productive lives,” said Allison Browning, Youth Services Division Director of Westbrook Health Services.
Red Ribbon Week is a nationwide campaign dedicated to inspiring youth and communities to live drug-free, celebrate healthy lifestyles, and take a stand against substance abuse through education, awareness activities, and positive community engagement.
