MISSION STATEMENT:
Dedicated to the development of character as a top priority in our schools, homes, and community by promoting trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship as a means of creating a safe and drug-free community.

WHO WE ARE:
Founded in 1999 by Klamath County District Attorney Ed Caleb and high school English teacher Debbie Vought, this committee of concerned citizens and their partners in law enforcement rallied around the ideas of reducing school violence, drug and dropout rates through positive youth development. CFSS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a ten member board of directors and supported by an advisory committee of parents, teachers and other citizens.

WHAT WE BELIEVE:
Character really counts! In personal relationships, in school, at the workplace, in life - who we are makes a difference.

There are enduring, universal truths-principles of thought and conduct which distinguish right from wrong and define the essence of good character.

There are common ethical values that transcend political, religious, economic and cultural differences. These values, which the Josephson Institute of Ethics calls the "Six Pillars of Character," are trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.  When these values are modeled, taught and expected, and when we transfer these values into what the Search Institute calls "Asset Building," communities are healthier and children thrive.

WHAT WE DO:
Support character education through media, workshops and events such as the CHARACTER COUNTS! In Klamath County Week.

Provide guidance, resources and ideas on how to integrate the Six Pillars of Character or other proven character education models into school programs, organizations and the community.

Lead and support character building opportunities such as service learning and mentoring partnerships between youth and trustworthy adults.

WHY:
Though the job of character education is primarily with parents, there are critical supporting roles to be played by everyone in the community.

Antisocial messages that pervade our culture are loud and frequent. We must proactively counter those with a unified, positive message about the values that sustain our democracy and our lives.

Research is clear: the human brain is wired for relationships.  When young people are bonded to responsible, caring adults, powered by positive messages and given valued roles in society, they are significantly less likely to use drugs or drop out of school.