Nominations are now being taken by Iowa’s Character Counts organization for people who exemplify the six pillars of the program — trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Spokeswoman Amy Smit says she’s hoping Iowans will look around and give deserving people the recognition.
Smit says Iowans can nominate their friends, neighbors, relatives, employees, co-workers and schools. Nominations will be taken through June, then a panel of volunteers will choose the finalists. Everyone is invited to an awards banquet in October to recognize the award-winners. Smit says it’s easy to nominate someone by going to the group’s website, “ www.charactercountsiniowa.org “.
She says to click on the “Events” header to go to the Character Awards page. You’ll have to tell a little about the nominee and how they demonstrate the six pillars. Smit says Iowans should consider this as a way of offering a thank you to the important people in their lives.
She says don’t be afraid to nominate someone because even if they don’t win, they should be honored to know you took the time to say you thought they have good character. Olympic gold-medal winning gymnast Shawn Johnson of West Des Moines will be presented with the Robert Ray Pillar of Character Award at the 2009 All Star Evening on April 17.