CAMDEN — Twenty-six students from Camden-Rockport High School have volunteered their time and effort to combat substance abuse by leading prevention activities in local elementary schools.

“We lead activities that teach positive self-esteem and self-awareness,” said Ryan Oakes, co-coordinator of Student CAST of the Midcoast Substance Abuse Council which serves Appleton, Camden, Hope, Lincolnville and Rockport.

Jan Mitchell, the other co-coordinator said, “We teach what’s good for them and what’s not good for them. It’s a message coming from older students they look up to.”

This student-to-student teaching is part of Red Ribbon Week. “These CAST volunteers are positive role models,” said Dan Domench, services coordinator for the Midcoast Substance Abuse Counciol, “and research indicates that information taught in this way has a significant positive effect on young children.” The prevention and referral programs of the council are advised and supported by Student CAST and the larger CORE Cast team.

Red Ribboon Week kicked off Saturday, Oct. 19, at a public supper held at Camden-Rockport High School.

CAST also will sponsor continuing Parent Skill Meetings at all area schools for the week of Oct. 21. Contact the local schools for dates and times.