County Community Character Initiative
Logan County, Kentucky, has started a community character initiative called CharacterWorks. Believing that schools cannot address character alone and that it needs to be a part of a community campaign, they developed a partnership with government leaders and businesses.
The campaign is focusing on character development of the youth and families of Logan County. Each month, Logan County will highlight a character trait. For example, April was determination month. Determination means working toward your goal whole-heartedly regardless of challenges!
Throughout each month, businesses, organizations, the newspaper and radio, the churches and schools will focus on the character trait. The citizens of Logan County will see the character word on signs, emails and newsletters. Beginning in August, schools will nominate students of character which will be recognized in the paper each month.
“Our plan is to recognize our young people who exhibit strong character through leadership opportunities within our community and with recognition in our paper and on the radio,” said Lisa White, ACE Coordinator, Alternative Center for Education, Russellville High School/Middle School.
“CharacterWorks will provide support and recognize our youth that exhibit strong character such as integrity, determination, honor and respect. Each week, we will recognize youth who exhibit strong character. During festivals, parades and community events, our students of character will lead the activities as they develop into our leaders of tomorrow.”
Here are some of the things that have happened so far: Lewisburg and Adairville city councils have proclaimed themselves to be Character Cities. Their Judge Executive has purchased a large sign which is placed in front of their Historic Court House. The police department and fire department have ordered signs as well. The police chief is considering placing CharacterWorks logo on the police cars. Eventually, all cities will do the same and join Logan County in becoming a County of Character.
They hope to announce that Logan County is a “County of Character” at a roll out event on July 28th.
Businesses have character work displayed on their email signatures, added to their newsletters, and churches are adding it to their Sunday school lessons and bulletins. The public library integrates the character trait into their story time. The Tourist and Commerce Commission has added a description of CharacterWorks on their Facebook page. The local newspaper places a small advertisement to kick off the character trait for the month, and 4H adds some of the character information to their newsletter.
Three people have agreed to serve on our CharacterWorks board. The hospital director is having his attorneys help get us not-for-profit status. We have several people on our advisory board including several banks and the Chamber of Commerce members. “We have done all of this with no money,” White said. “So far we have done everything with people paying for their own signs and logos. Kiwanis donated $200 for advertising expenses.”
