Governor Patrick Morrisey visited Blennerhassett Middle School in Parkersburg to mark Red Ribbon Week and highlight the state’s progress in reducing youth substance use. The event brought together representatives from the West Virginia Department of Human Services, Westbrook Health Services, and school officials.
Governor Morrisey recognized the efforts of students, teachers, and community organizations in promoting a drug-free environment for young people in West Virginia. “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.”
The governor pointed out that statewide prevention programs are having an impact. Data from the West Virginia School Learning Environment Survey shows a significant decline in youth substance use over recent years. Between 2019 and 2024, reported alcohol use among students fell from 13.7% to 3.95%, while marijuana use dropped from 9.4% to 4.3%.
Allison Browning, Youth Services Division Director at Westbrook Health Services, also spoke at the event about the importance of coordinated prevention strategies: “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.”
