(Bradenton, Fla., Dec. 2, 2021) — State College of Florida Collegiate School (SCFCS) School Resource Officer and Behavior Specialist Melissa Bailey was nominated for the Champion of Prevention Award for the education sector by Drug Free Manatee, Manatee County’s substance abuse prevention coalition. Bailey has been working at SCFCS Bradenton for four years.
Prevention Champions are those individuals who are driven to make a difference by promoting prevention efforts. Bailey was recognized for her hard work and dedication to the Youth in Action program at SCFCS, contributing to the organization’s 50% membership growth, in addition to her participation at training events.
Nominees of the Champion of Prevention Award were invited to attend the 20th Anniversary Red Ribbon Experience event on October 28. Along with the awards presentations, the celebratory event included an interactive exhibit of prevention initiatives, art show, silent auction and visual review of the history of Drug Free Manatee. The organization also held a candlelight vigil the evening before the event to honor the lives lost to addiction and substance abuse.