Character Counts
CHARACTER COUNTS! is an educational framework for teaching universal values and a national coalition of organizations that support each other. The result is a culture change in your school, business or organization. CHARACTER COUNTS! improves the lives of the adults who teach it, the communities that embrace it and the students who make better choices as a result of it. The vitality of our community is dependent on building and maintaining strong character so please consider offering your support.
Six Pillars of Character
Citizenship: Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment • Volunteer
Responsibility: Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others
Fairness: Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly • Treat all people fairly
Caring: Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need
Trustworthiness: Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends, and country
Respect: Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant and accepting of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements