    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8586--OCT. 15, 2010

    Proclamation 8586 of October 15, 2010
    National Character Counts Week, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    America's strength, even in the most challenging of times, is found in
    the spirit and character of our people. During National Character Counts
    Week, we reflect upon the values of equality, fairness, and compassion
    that lie at the heart of our country. These qualities resonate in the
    countless humanitarian acts and deep social consciousness of our
    citizens. From lending a hand to those in need to caring for the sick,
    selfless service is a fundamental American ideal, and one we must
    instill in our children and grandchildren.
    The strength and character of our country have always come from our
    ability to recognize ourselves in one another. Concern for the well-
    being of our fellow Americans has shaped our Nation's development and
    will continue to cast our future. As parents and educators, community
    leaders and mentors, we share the responsibility for instilling in our
    children this fundamental principle. By demonstrating shared values such
    as respect, curiosity, integrity, courage, honesty, and patriotism, we
    help our youth develop the strength of character that is the mark of our
    great Nation. In turn, our young people will serve as models of mutual
    regard and civility, and share in the responsibility to maintain our
    schools and neighborhoods as safe, supportive, and inclusive
    environments.
    Across America, countless individuals reflect our highest ideals by
    offering their time and energy to help make our communities safer, more
    nurturing places to live. Their service results from a decision to
    become engaged, and it often becomes a lifelong commitment. During
    National Character Counts Week, let us take this opportunity to
    celebrate the generosity of America's character, and to fortify and
    inspire it in our next generation of leaders.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 17 through
    October 23, 2010, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon all
    public officials, educators, parents, students, and Americans to observe
    this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of
    October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the

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    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA