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The
Character's Cool Contest is a program
developed by the MindOH! Foundation, which is a non-profit
organization that empowers youth to achieve their full potential
through innovative character education programs that inspire
moral and ethical behavior.
In addition to the MindOH! Foundation, the
following companies, non-profit organizations and individuals
have generously contributed products, funding and in-kind
donations to sponsor the 2005 Character's Cool Contest.
MindOH!
was founded in July 2000 by six entrepreneurs who are dedicated
to providing young people with the necessary tools to develop
strong character traits and a healthy self-concept. The Company
creates character-based, interactive computer modules that
teach students problem-solving techniques and communication
skills, reinforcing universally held virtues such as respect
and responsibility. MindOH!'s Discipline and Life Skills
Series (DLSS), Education Relationship Management System
(ERMS) and At Home Series (AHS) incorporate scientifically
based research and adapt successfully in home, education,
juvenile justice and youth organizations. In 2001 MindOH!
extended their commitment to character education by starting
the MindOH! Foundation.
Athletes
for a Better World exists to change the culture of sport
by developing individual character, teamwork, and civic responsibility
through commitment to the Code for
Living. ABW grew out of a need for positive mentoring for
young persons today in sport. Unfortunately, stories about
greed, scandal, and inappropriate behavior have become prevalent
in our sporting society. Regrettably, young people are picking
up this type of negative behavior despite great efforts being
made by many in our communities to combat this growing trend.
The
Center for Safe and Responsible Internet
Use has been established
to provide outreach services addressing issues of the safe
and responsible use of the Internet. Our goal is to provide
guidance to parents, educators, librarians, policy-makers,
and others regarding effective, empowerment strategies to
assist young people in gaining the knowledge, skills, motivation,
and self-control to use the Internet and other information
technologies in a safe and responsible manner.
Nancy Willard, executive director
of CSRIU, is a recognized authority on issues related to the
safe and responsible use of the Internet and author of "Computer
Ethics, Etiquette and Safety". This book has been published
by the International Society for Technology in Education.
For more information, check the ISTE
Bookstore.
Mind
Over Machines has been delivering cost-effective information
technology solutions since 1987, enabling business and government
clients to reduce costs, gain productivity and competitive
advantage and attract new customers, partners or employees.
With a focus on e-government and e-business, the Company has
steadily built recognition in the Mid Atlantic region for
on-time, on budget projects involving web application development
and integration, and network services administration and operation.
For more information, visit
http://www.mindovermachines.com.
Mothers
Against Violence in America (MAVIA) is dedicated to preventing
violence by and against children through education, outreach
and advocacy. Founded in 1994, MAVIA is a national leader
in the field of violence prevention. Through a powerful network
of mothers and fathers, MAVIA is creating strong and effective
partnerships with school, business and community leaders in
cities across America.
Since 1992, Project
Wisdom, Inc. has been committed to helping students make
wiser choices. Project Wisdom is a leading producer of character
education materials that encourage young people to reflect
upon the meaning of civic and personal values and the application
of those values in their daily lives. The centerpiece of the
program is a collection of thought-provoking messages designed
to be read over the PA or in-house television system. These
messages inspire and teach and take less than one minute a
day to broadcast. Schools taking part in Project Wisdom report
a positive impact on teacher morale, fewer disciplinary problems,
reduction in incidents of bullying and teasing, and a more
positive school climate. The Project Wisdom program has been
implemented in more than 12,000 schools nationwide in all
50 states. For more information about the program or a copy
of the 2004 Program Evaluation visit www.projectwisdom.com.
Students
Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) is a program of Mothers
Against Violence in America and is open to all students who
want to change attitudes and behaviors which contribute to
violence. SAVE empowers students to create their own solutions
and strategies for safer schools and communities.
The following individuals
have generously donated cash to be
given away as prizes and scholarships:
- Ric and
Kathy Guenther
- Terrell and Audrey
Hutchison
- Suzanne
Johnsen
- Bobbie and
Richard Kristinik
- Gil
Luton and Norma Luton
- Richard Luton
- Freddie
and Marsha McAnear
- Elizabeth Van Auken
- Joe Vodvarka
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