| Whether you work in a large corporation or own a small business, the challenges and the demands of the workplace are always present. Wouldn’t it be nice to find a tool, get a plan, to help you navigate your way through the challenges and the stresses that demand your time and drain your energy. Well, there’s a group in York Region that believes it has the answer. It’s called a Character Community and it’s all about bringing out the best in all of us. The Character Community initiative is led by a Council that is made up of community leaders as well as representatives from the business and media sectors, education and police. The York Region initiative was launched in February 2002, when the attributes were announced and Wendel Clark, former Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs was named as Character Champion. The purpose of the Character Community Council is to educate and increase understanding and awareness of the benefits of good character in business, schools, homes and community organizations. Since its launch, the Council has been busy facilitating family forums, making presentations to a variety of business and community groups, developing education programmes and conferences. The goal of the Council is to have all sectors of York Region embrace and promote these attributes. Implementing the Character Initiative into the workplace has specific benefits. Research from companies who have incorporated the character attributes into their language and value statements are reporting an increase in morale and productivity, and a decrease in absenteeism and turnover. All good news for the business sector! The Staff of the Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce wish to operate as a Chamber of Character. All Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce staff performance reviews will include our Character Attributes and we will hire and retain staff based on these principles. We have adopted the York Region Character attributes because we feel the impact of these attributes will be greatest when they are shared. The Character Attributes are as follows: January - OPTIMISM
I will maintain a positive attitude, look on the brighter side of situations and seek opportunities in the face of adversity.
February - INITIATIVE
I Will recognize what needs to be done and do it, without prompting from others.
March - PERSEVERANCE
I will not give up when things get tough, I will stick to my goals and work hard to achieve them, despite obstacles and challenges.
April - RESPECT
I will treat my self and others with consideration, high regard and dignity.
May - RESPONSIBILITY
I will be accountable for my actions, be reliable and keep my commitments.
June - HONESTY
I will me sincere, trustworthy and truthful.
July - INTEGRITY
I will do what is right and ensure there is no difference between what I say and what I do.
August - COMPASSION
I will do whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others, I will strive to understand and be sensitive to their feelings.
September - COURAGE
I will stand up for my beliefes and principles and face challenges, fear and difficulty with fortitude.
October - INCLUSIVENESS
I will work to build a community where everyone feels included, empowered and valued for his or her unique contribution.
November - FAIRNESS
I will treat others in a just, equitable and unbaised manner.
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