[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 42 (Monday, October 24, 2005)]
[Page 1545]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7946--National Character Counts Week, 2005

 October 14, 2005

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    During National Character Counts Week, we focus on ways to reach out 
to our fellow Americans, especially children. Parents are the first and 
best example of character in a child's life. By volunteering and 
performing other acts of service in their communities, parents can teach 
children about the good that comes from helping others. By extending a 
hand to those who suffer, parents can demonstrate kindness and 
compassion and help children learn the importance of serving a cause 
greater than themselves.
    Our schools also play a vital part in providing children with the 
principles they need to grow and succeed. The Department of Education 
supports character education through its Partnerships in Character 
Education Program. During my Administration, over 60 State and local 
education agencies have received funding from the Department of 
Education to provide programs that teach important values to our youth.
    Many citizens around the country are helping in the effort to teach 
character to children. One of the most important ways to contribute is 
to become a mentor. By showing love, support, and compassion, one person 
can make a difference in the life of a child.
    During National Character Counts Week and throughout the year, I 
encourage children and all Americans to make good choices in life, set 
high standards, and serve as leaders. By working together, we can all 
contribute to a culture of good citizenship and responsibility that 
strengthens our Nation.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 16 through October 
22, 2005, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public 
officials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all Americans 
to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and 
programs.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day 
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 18, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
19. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.