CHARACTER COUNTS!

CHARACTER COUNTS! is two things: 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 or youth-service program.

CHARACTER COUNTS! is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and nonsectarian. It transcends cultural differences. It isn’t a curriculum, an add-on, an out-of-the-box program, or a quick-fix fad. It’s character education that works with your needs and preexisting programs. Just have a look inside and see how easy it is to understand ― and begin.

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 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

Responsibility

• Do what you are supposed to do
• 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 choices

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

Caring

• Be kind
• Be compassionate and show you care
• Express gratitude
• Forgive others
• Help people in need

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