A colorful Red Ribbon event

SANDUSKY — They found fun in an event that helps to raise awareness for a serious issue. Many locals attended the Red Ribbon Week Kickoff Celebration on Thursday at the Campbell Christian Community Center in Sandusky. Hosted by Project Noelle's Erie County chapter, children — whether or not involved with the center — came out and took part in many free activities, such as decorating contests for posters and pumpkins. Kids could also play games, enjoy food, receive prizes and hang out with their peers in a safe setting. "It's a fun night," said Keli Clark, director and founder of Project Noelle. Clark founded Project Noelle after losing her daughter, Noelle, to a fentanyl overdose. Thursday marked the first day of Red Ribbon Week, a nationwide recognition period spanning through Oct. 31. The annual alcohol, tobacco, drug and violence prevention campaign began exactly 40 years ago. The initiative helps to raise awareness about all dangers regarding drug use. Localized events, such as Thursday's gathering in Sandusky, help to remember Noelle while also empowering children with knowledge on drug prevention, Clark and others said. "Watching her struggle with addiction was devastating, and transforming that pain into purpose became her way of keeping her daughter's love alive," said Stephen Terrell, a spokesman for Project Noelle. "Today, Project Noelle stands as a testament to one young woman's fight and a mother's unwavering resolve to ensure no other family faces this heartbreak alone." Thursday marked the second such Red Ribbon event happening locally, and Clark wants to continue this for many more years. It's possible, in large part, due to many community organizations partnering in this effort. This would include Sandusky police, Perkins police, the Erie County Health Department, BrightView Health, Legends Recovery and the Ohio National Guard. "I'm hoping people have fun but also leave here having some good conversations with our organizations so that kids know about the dangers of drugs," Clark said.