Questions

Answers

What is a community of Character?
The concept involves focusing the attention of the community on the importance of Character. It is a broad-based effort to integrate character into the culture of our community. In a Community of Character elected officials, community leaders, and citizens-at-large recognize the critical importance of good character in building a safe, productive, and caring community. Emphasis is placed upon an individual's responsibility for his or her words, actions, and attitudes, and undisciplined living is considered socially unacceptable. Most important, a Community of Character has leaders who are models of the character they advocate for its citizens.

How do you define good character?
Good character is the inward motivation to do what is right, according to the highest standards of behavior, in every situation, whatever the cost. Good Character enables one to see the wise decision in every situation and provides the courage to act upon that decision. For example, people will be able to see needs and provide solutions if they have strong character traits of diligence, determination, and decisiveness. A higher standard of living will naturally result if people are resourceful and thrifty. Greater economic results are the overflow of creativity, initiative, and endurance. A safer community results when citizens exercise the character traits of alertness, orderliness, and self-control.

In general, what is involved in joining the character initiative?
There are several facets of involvement, such as: · Making resolutions to become a family of character, a school of character, a business of character, a department of character, etc. · The training of supervisory employees to incorporate the character emphasis into your leadership culture. · Initiate character development activities, where needed. · Changing the culture in your family, department, school, or business to one in which character is emphasized, required, and praised. Create a culture where, not only is achievement rewarded, but, equally, good character. · Providing employees with Character Bulletins, which provide historical perspective and action items for the development of a particular character trait. · Developing creative ways to provide families with character development resources. See contact us page for further questions on how to become involved with Character First.

How can I get involved or find out more information?
Everyone is invited to attend the monthly leadership coffee held on the second Thursday of every month at the Eagle Building in downtown Holland (Corner of 10^th and Central). Also, you may contact any of the council members. They would be happy to answer questions or direct you to someone who can.