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CHARACTER COUNTS!
From the National CHARACTER COUNTS!
Character Chronicle for March 2007:
Martin County (FL) Celebrates
the Joe Kordick Youth Character Awards
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"I used to be a spoiled brat that
had everything done for me. I blamed my handicapping
condition for everything. Now, by concentrating on specific
traits I've become more independent and mature. I've been
putting these character traits into my life and they've been
helping me grow as a person. Attention to the pillars have
enabled me to take my mind off of my handicap and made me a
productive member of my school community."
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-- Timothy Jones
So wrote one of the winning authors of the
Joe Kordick Youth Character Awards held in Martin County in
Florida. In its sixth year, the competition awards students from
grades eight and twelve who have been nominated.
This year nominations were open to public groups including
churches and youth groups. To be eligible for nomination
students must show an ongoing commitment that demonstrates any
or all of the traits associated with the Six Pillars of
Character.
Nominated students are then invited to submit an essay detailing
their undertakings which have demonstrated uncompromising
integrity, community service and/or perseverance and inner
strength which has allowed the student to overcome difficulties.
The late Joe Kordick founded the Awards,
and was a driving force behind the implementation of CHARACTER
COUNTS! in Martin County. His legacy has outlived him, and
continues to thrive among the community of Martin County, where
this year’s winners will take on the honor of becoming Character
Ambassadors within their schools.
Projects will include peer mentoring through the offices of the
guidance counselor, promoting voluntarism at school and
community events, and maintaining involvement and commitment to
their extracurricular activities that got them noticed in the
first place.
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“I have sung the songs and listened
to the message of CHARACTER COUNTS! since kindergarten. This
message has influenced me to be the person I am today.”
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-- Emily Holland
The success of CHARACTER COUNTS! in Martin
County comes from the dedication of those involved in
maintaining its high profile. This year several new sponsors
were involved in the event. The ceremony was held in the local
technical college, enabling savings to be made for a reception
area. Light snacks were provided free of charge by a local
supermarket.
The whole community was involved in recognition of good
character, weaving it into the fabric of their lives, and by
rewarding nominees for doing something good that benefits
everyone.
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“If you are unclear of what the
trait is that I possess that is so special it is this: Even
though I may stumble at times, I never, ever, stop trying to
be the best person I can be.”
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-- Amanda Brown
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Sponsors
Estate of
Joe Kordick
Kramer, Sopko
& Levenstein
PA
Proctor, Crook
& Crowder Inc. |
