A Derived from the Greek word character, the term character has come to mean the constellation of strengths and weaknesses that form and reveal who we are. Recognizing the importance of character and virtue in a free society, the Foundation supports a broad spectrum of programs, publications and studies that promote character education from childhood through young adulthood. The goal is to encourage schools and colleges to reinforce such positive values as honesty, compassion, self-discipline, respect, creativity and purpose and to foster widespread conversations about character development and values and the living of these values.

“The real answer to the perils of our time is that we simply must become more civilized. We must pay attention to something that every civilized society has given preeminent importance: instilling in our children certain fundamental traits of character like honesty, compassion, courage, perseverance, altruism, and fidelity to one's commitments.”

— Former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett