April's Character Quality of the Month
COMPASSION: Defined as"Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others."

Founder Transitions to Head Trainer Role
Bob Powell, primary founder of Character Fort Collins, transitioned out of his role as Executive Director on December 31, 2007. After six full years of volunteer efforts with the organization, he continues to serve with a lifetime Board of Directors appointment, as a certified Character First! trainer, and as a key member of the Poudre School District Character Education Council. A number of key advancements in character education throughout the community point back to Bob's efforts. With many other dedicated volunteers by his side, Bob can be credited for his contributions to character education in schools, CHAMP, training and resourcing over 1,300 law enforcement personnel and hundreds of business professionals, running the Character Fort Collins office for six years, and numerous other activities related to the advancement of the community-wide character initiative in all sectors of the community. In addition, Bob recently received the Lamplighter Award from Team Fort Collins at the 5th Annual Simply Red event February 8, 2008. On March 20, 2008, he was recognized as a finalist for the Daniel Ritchie Award, presented by the Colorado Ethics in Business Alliance (CEBA) in Denver.

Colorado Rockies President Keli McGregor Keynotes CHAMP Community Kick-Off and
Fund-Raising Breakfast
January 31, 2008 -- CHAMP, or "Character in Athletics - Make it a Priority," raised $40,000 at its Community Kick-Off and Fund-Raising Breakfast. The funds will be used to support coaches' efforts to integrate effective character development strategies into their youth athletic programs. Keli McGregor, President of the Colorado Rockies, was the keynote speaker. Sonny Lubick was honored with the naming of an annual award called the "Sonny Lubick Coach of Character Award," which will be given to one deserving coach per year. CHAMP is a program of the Greater Fort Collins Community of Character Initiative and is managed by Character Fort Collins. It has been made possible by thousands of volunteer hours and the support of five founding organizations: Colorado State University Athletics, Poudre School District, the City of Fort Collins, Character Fort Collins and Healthier Communities Coalition. Special thanks to Ken Schrader, CHAMP Commissioner, the CHAMP Commission, the CHAMP Foundations Team, the breakfast sponsors and the many volunteers representing all sectors of the community who collaborated, sacrificed and worked long hours to see CHAMP succeed. To read the full story, visit the CHAMP website at: www.champfc.com.