How Did We Get Here
From a Teaching Assistant, a member of the Reading Team to forming Characters of Character NFP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a firm foundation for children to establish strong civic values. Joni created the nine animal characters while working in a class for behavior and learning students struggling with life skills and academics. I can remember laying on the floor with the students talking about “life” with these nine year olds. Bringing in some creativity made them feel comfortable with the conversations and before you knew it, one student said to name the elephant, Eleanor! I probably should have because that is my grandmothers name, however, we went with what we now know as Self-Esteem Elephant. This was in 1999. In 2005 I piloted the characters in an elementary school where they earned a National Promising Practice Award. In 2007 I formed Characters of Character NFP. I had no idea how to do this, what was involved nor the time it took. What I did know is that these characters could relate to our children and that my WHY has now begun, to make a difference in the life of a child. We hope you join our journey, support our cause, find the value in these traits and talk about them with your own children, students, families and in your community. Miss Joni and Team Characters
Characters of Character is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a firm foundation for children to establish strong civic values. We've published over 30 children's books, brought all the characters to life in costume, provide character building activities, such as painting, drama, literacy, social discussions and workshops to help reinforce and teach our nine core values.
We have created & developed 9 Characters: Behavior Bear, Do'er Duck, Friendship Frog, Healthy Hippo, Manners Monkey, Respectful Rabbit, Responsible Rabbit, Self-Esteem Elephant and Warm-Hearted Walrus. Through the use of these Characters, children are able to easily understand, internalize, and eventually portray positive character traits.
We partner with children's hospitals to offer Superhero Character Building Kits. Our organization has developed a way to provide a creative outlet while children are learning valuable character building lessons. A single Kit includes everything a child needs to complete the art activities included - that means no cross contamination or having to search for a missing component in order to complete an art project.
A hospital, no matter the reason for a visit, can be a scary place. Our Kits are not only fun & engaging, but they’re a positive outlet. Children tend to have big emotions - why not harness that and allow them to safely express their thoughts and feelings?
They are also absorbing good decision making skills, enhancing their reading, writing, and social and emotional skills - all while incorporating the arts!
Our characters are relatable, friendly and provide comfort to children who are in search of role models to help them build their foundation to good citizenship.
Our organization earned a National Promising Practice Award, a Great NonProfits Award, Small Business Of The Year Award, Best of The Fox Charitable Organization Award, and Joni herself is a member of the John Maxwell Team. We work tirelessly sharing activities, messages and resources to help others become the best they can be. Although the characters are geared towards children, they are certainly a friendly reminder to our youth and adults alike.
Thank you for being part of our journey & joining us in making this world better, together.
TELL me and I forget, TEACH me and I remember, INVOLVE me and I learn. Benjamin Franklin