[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 43 (Monday, October 29, 2007)]
[Page 1385]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8192--National Character Counts Week, 2007

 October 19, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    The greatness of a nation is measured not by power or wealth but by 
the character of its people. During National Character Counts Week, we 
underscore our dedication to promoting values for our young people and 
encourage all Americans to demonstrate good character.
    As America's youth strive to become responsible adults, they carry 
with them the values and traditions they were taught as children. At 
home, parents and families can teach universal values such as respect, 
tolerance, self-restraint, fairness, and compassion. In the community, 
we all can set good examples and demonstrate the virtues of leadership, 
patriotism, and responsible citizenship. The members of our Armed Forces 
demonstrate the strength of America's character by answering the call of 
service to our Nation.
    Through the Helping America's Youth initiative, caring adults are 
connected with at-risk youth so that they have a mentor and an example 
as they navigate the challenges young people face. By working together, 
we can give children the skill and habits they need to reach their full 
potential.
    During National Character Counts Week and throughout the year, I 
urge all citizens to support the character development of our youth and 
make a difference in the lives of others. One way for all Americans to 
add to the character of our country is to volunteer to help a neighbor 
in need, and more information can be found at volunteer.gov. I encourage 
every American to serve a cause greater than themselves and set a 
positive example in their community.
    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 21 through October 
27, 2007, 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 nineteenth day 
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:50 a.m., October 23, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on October 20, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
October 24.