Whereas, Young people will be the stewards of our communities, nation, and world in critical times, and the present and future well-being of our society requires an involved, caring citizenry with good character; and,

Whereas, Concerns about the character training of children have taken on a new sense of urgency as violence by and against youth threatens the physical and psychological well-being of the nation; and,

Whereas, More than ever, children need strong and constructive guidance from their families and their communities, including schools, youth organizations, religious institutions, and civic groups; and,

Whereas, The character of a nation is only as strong as the character of its individual citizens, and the public benefits when young people learn that good character counts in personal relationships, school, and the workplace; and,

Whereas, Scholars and educators agree that people do not automatically develop good character and that conscientious efforts must be made by youth-influencing institutions and individuals to help young people develop the essential traits and characteristics that comprise good character; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 15, 2006, as Character Counts Week.