Dear Character Counts family, What a year 2020 has been! Like many organizations, the pandemic has significantly influenced our day-to-day operations this year and required a dramatic shift in how we carried out our programming. Though these changes have presented some unique challenges, we have also found the pandemic’s disruption has been an invitation to reflect on and refine our programmatic goals, our lasting impact, and — most importantly — our “why.” What is our why? To empower youth in becoming resilient, capable, and characterful adults who realize their inherent potential. Today and throughout the history of Character Counts Mid Shore, we place our why at the center of every decision. During this pivotal year, an unanswered question remained, as articulated by a Board member, “If we are truly committed to our why, is the current model of Character Counts Mid Shore the best delivery for that why?” To assist in this evaluation process, we established a program committee and an advisory council to help us explore the landscape of possibilities. Through evidence-based research, we came to recognize that a child’s mental health and well-being is inextricably linked to the expression and development of their character. As we envisioned the most effective program for our youth, a new path emerged to align ourselves with the leading mental health organization in our region, For All Seasons. In the end, the decision was made that Character Counts Mid Shore will close its doors effective December 31, 2020. Beginning January 1, 2021, Lauren Weber will join the For All Seasons staff as the Director of Programs and Curriculum Development. Lauren will work side-by-side with the agency’s Center for Learning and mental health clinicians, who currently serve the schools of the five Mid-Shore counties, to lead the creation of comprehensive programming that will continue building wellness and resilience in our community. Thank you for your commitment and loyalty to the program. I invite you to view the enclosed booklet, which celebrates
Character Counts Mid Shore’s 23-year journey. Character Counts Mid Shore has been a driver of transforming the lives of young people. Truly, YOU have been what has made it all possible. It is only through your generosity of time, energy, wisdom, and financial support that we have been able to cultivate a characterful community. We couldn’t be more excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Sincerely,
Richard M. Potter, Jr. Character Counts Mid Shore Board President
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CELEBRATING our students
an interview with Character Counts Mid Shore alumna
Katie Allen
Character Counts Mid Shore: To start off, can you share a bit of your history with Character Counts Mid Shore? Katie Allen: I remember being a part of Character Counts as early as 2nd grade. When I was in high school, I served as a volunteer teaching 1st graders at Easton Elementary. I also was a student representative on CCMS’ Board of Directors. I have come to really value these experiences because I know that I learned skills that are helping me today and that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. CCMS: Looking back, how have these experiences impacted you? KA: The power of character lessons are that their
effects are gradual. Little by little they make a difference. I think about what I’ve learned and realize that I am a better human because of the mindfulness and character lessons I learned when I was young. CCMS: Are there any particular lessons that you still remember? KA: I distinctly remember Coach Bob’s “Turtle” mindfulness lessons.
I think that his lessons on mindfulness and emotional control were really important to my overall character development and, really, my day-to-day well-being. I really am still using these lessons today! Especially in today’s world, with everything being so 4 Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS
fast paced and this year with the pandemic, I often remember those lessons and make an effort to pause, take a deep breath, and relax, even if it’s just for 5 minutes. Over the years, it’s something that has helped me to be my best no matter what’s happening around me. CCMS: As Character Counts Mid Shore prepares to dissolve into For All Seasons, share just one thing that you would want others to know. KA: I think about my character and I realize that my ability to be my best relies on me feeling like I know how to handle all that life throws my way. Just like with Coach Bob’s mindfulness lessons, I think character education works best when kids are also learning about themselves and their emotions. That’s why I’m so excited for Character Counts Mid Shore teaming up with For All Seasons! CCMS: Do you have any last thoughts? KA: School and grades are so important. But, it’s also about the
kind of heart that you have and whether you can make it through life’s storms. That’s what character education can do: affect what kind of person that you become. I think all kids should have a chance to grow into their best selves: strong, happy, kind, compassionate, and committed to helping others. I think that’s just as important as traditional academics.
“The power of character lessons are that their effects are gradual. Little by little they make a difference... I think about what I’ve learned and I realize that I am a better human because of the mindfulness and character lessons I learned when I was young.”
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6 Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS
Coach Bob Hyman
For over a decade, Coach Bob Hyman went above and beyond for Talbot County youth. Recognizing that the third grade year is a pivotal one in a child’s development, Coach Bob took it upon himself to be the Character Coach volunteer for every third grade classroom in Talbot County. In this role, Coach Bob shared both character lessons and a specially designed mindfulness program called “Turtle.” Early in our history, Coach Bob knew that character doesn’t happen in a vacuum, but that one’s ability to control his or her emotions is critically intertwined with acting characterfully. Coach Bob developed the Turtle mindfulness series of lessons, using puppet turtles to teach mindfulness techniques in a fun, age-appropriate manner.
To preserve Coach Bob’s Turtle Mindfulness lessons for years to come, our new programming at For All Seasons will include a With his mindfulness and character lessons, Coach Bob has influenced an series of ten educational entire generation. Talk to any Talbot County student over the age of eight; their eyes will light up while they excitedly share Coach Bob’s lessons on videos. how to use Turtle to get and stay calm in order to be their best selves.
CELEBRATING those who made us great
celebrating our very own Mr. Rogers
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CELEBRATING those who made us great
celebrating the queen of character
Merrilie Ford
Merrilie D. Ford was one of our very first Character Counts Volunteers. For 25 years, Ms. Ford has invested her time and energy as a trusted and loyal volunteer For over two decades, she has made an indelible impact through her efforts to teach our community’s youth critical life skills through character lessons. She began as a Character Coach in 1999 at the elementary level. In 2007, she added high school classes to her weekly volunteer endeavors. Later, she began coaching at Easton Middle School. Throughout it all, she prioritized lessons that would be of most use to youth, as they entered adulthood. In December 2014, Character Counts Mid-Shore held a dinner in Ms. Ford’s and now deceased Reverend Nate Southworth’s honor, where they were dubbed “Queen and King of Character.” These honorary titles were conferred in celebration of their extraordinary commitment to our community’s young people. Merrilie will continue her volunteer service, as we create new educational programming at For All Seasons.
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CELEBRATING our history 10 Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS
CELEBRATING our history Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS 11
CELEBRATING our recent volunteers
CHARACTER COACHES Mr. Jason Adams Dr. Leslie Adelman Ms. Robyn Allen Rev. Dr. George R. Ames, Jr. Corporal Jacob Andrew Mr. Matthew Andrew Mr. Tom Arnold Deputy Charmaine Bacorn Lieutenant Donald Baker Mrs. Rosy Ball Ms. Nicole Barth Officer Charles Bealefeld Deputy Joseph Beans Deputy Brent Beck Corporal William Bodnar Mr. Ben Boettger Mrs. Kimberly Bogac Mrs. Tammy Bradley Ms. Jacque Brohawn Mr. Matthew Brooks Mrs. Lori Buss-Morton Reverend David CaseyMotley Mrs. Shannon Cayer
Mrs. Laura Chance Mrs. Pat Chapman Deputy Rebecca Clark Ms. Tracy Cohee Mr. John Coleman Officer Ashley Collison Mr. Tim Connors Mrs. Renee Copper Mr. Steve Covey Ms. Maria Covey Mrs. Amy Dashiells Mrs. Susan Delean-Botkin Ms. Charlene DeShields Pastor Jack Diehl Mr. Tom Divilio Lieutenant Rob Dixon Ms. Cindy Doupnik Mrs. Melanie Dressler Dr. Nan Duerling Mrs. Susan Dunn Corporal Andrew Durham Mrs. Jennifer Dvorak Senator Adelaide Eckardt Mr. Tom Ellis Mrs. Sarah Ensor
Mrs. M. Janie Eskow Ms. Gloria Farrare Mr. David Fike Reverend Thomas Fisher Mrs. Peggy Ford Ms. Merrilie Ford Mrs. Leah Foxwell Mrs. Sharri B. Foy Mrs. Susan Friedel Mr. Steve Gadow Mrs. Brienne Garland Mrs. Wendy Garner Corporal Michael Gestole Mrs. Maggie Gowe Ms. Nina Graham Mrs. Tina Gray Mr. Alex Green Mrs. Lisa Green Deputy Amber Hafer Sergeant Eric Hall Mrs. Heather Harrington Mr. Glen Harris Ms. Joyce Harrod Mrs. Morgan Hawks Ms. Talia Hedley
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Captain James Henning Mr. Jesse Hicks Mr. Chad Hill Mrs. Kerianne Hinerman-Tolker Mr. Ted Holloway Mr. Bob Hyman Officer Jeff Jackson Reverend Ron James Ms. Maria Jenkins Ms. Kesha JenkinsBatson Mr. Denny Jones Mrs. Ashley Jones Ms. Kim Kastel Pastor David Kelley, Jr. Ms. Maureen Keogh Mr. Vincent Knoepfel Corporal Cindy Komenda Mr. Patrick Lanahan Mrs. Barbara Lane Mrs. Shavonté Lewis Ms. Denice Lombard Mr. Jeff Ludwig
Ms. Lisa Peter Mr. Lenny Pfeffer Pastor Tim Poly Mrs. Meoldy Prairie Mrs. Patty Quimby Ms. Ann Robinson Mrs. Anne Rosen Lieutenant Aric Rosenbach Mrs. Michelle Rubadue Ms. Alisha Saulsbury Ms. Darlene Schwaeble Ms. Emilie Seneff Mr. Steven Sensibaugh Mr. Keith Shaffer Mr. David Sherrill Mr. David Short Mrs. Sue Simmons Mr. Christopher Skelton Pastor Peter J. Smith Mr. Michael Sousa Mr. Andrew Southworth Mr. Parker Spurry Mrs. Robin Stanley Ms. Jean Startt
Mrs. Emily Stone Officer Steve Stouffer Mr. Frank Stout Mr. Peter Taillie Pastor David Talley Mr. Dominic Terrone Mr. Chris Thomas Mrs. Rebecca Thomas Mr. Robert L. Thomas, Sr. Reverend Jerome Tilghman Ms. Megan Timms Staff Sergeant Justin Tyson Mr. Donnie Webb Mr. Jeff Webb Mrs. Kawana Webb Mr. Chris White Mrs. Deborah Wooden Mr. Jeremy Wyatt Mr. Bob Zimeroff
COVID AT-HOME LESSONS Mr. Bill Allen Ms. Katie Allen Dr. Kelly Griffith Mr. Bob Hyman Rabbi Peter Hyman Ms. Denice Lombard Hon. Karen Murphy Jensen President Corey Pack Mr. Angel Perez Mr. Richard M. Potter, Jr. Dr. Samantha Scott Mr. David Sherrill U.S. Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill Talbot Interfaith Shelter Councilwoman Doncella Wilson
CELEBRATING our recent volunteers
COACHES, cont. Mr. Chris Markin Mrs. Leigh Marquess Mrs. Lennie Martin Mr. Gerson Martinez Delegate Johnny Mautz Mrs. Samantha McDonald PFC Chris McMullen Ms. Kristi Mertaugh Ms. Nicole Mihalos Officer David Mills Mr. Ray Morris Mrs. Sarah Mueller Hon. Karen Murphy Jensen Ms. Sherri Murphy Mr. Mo Newnam Mrs. Cynthia North Ms. Laura Northrop Mr. Richard O’Brien Ms. Lisa Padgette Mr. Walter B. Palmer III Reverend Ray Parsons Mrs. Dawn Patrick
Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS 13
CELEBRATING our volunteer leaders
BOARD of DIRECTORS & EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Richard M. Potter, Jr. Salisbury University Board President
Elizabeth Devlin Hackett* Chesapeake College Board Vice President
William Allen* Caroline County Public Schools Board Treasurer
Sue Angel* Talbot County Public Schools (retired) Board Secretary
Karen Murphy Jensen Maryland Judiciary
David Sherrill Private Sector (retired)
Deborah Wooden* Dorchester County Public Schools (retired)
Lauren Kay Weber* Executive Director
ADVISORY COUNCIL Ms. Nancy Andrew Mr. Kamari Collins Mrs. Elizabeth Devlin Hackett Mrs. Laura Heikes Ms. Lauren Kay Weber
FOUNDING BOARD
Mr. Richard T. Allen President & Exec. Director Mr. Wiliam T. Hunter Secretary/Treasurer Mr. A. James Clark Trustee Mr. Richard L. Goodall Trustee Mr. W. Moorhead Vermilye Trustee
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...and many thanks to former Board member Thomas K. Arnold for his generosity and wisdom. *denotes member served on the Program Development Committee.
the leadership supporters who have transformed our work
CELEBRATING our supporters
CIRCLE of CHARACTER
The leaders below have provided significant, long-term, and visionary investments in Character Counts Mid Shore over the years since our inception in 1998. Their transformational support has made our work possible. The Estate of J. Townshend Benjamin Mr. & Mrs. Richard P. Casson in loving memory of Character Coach Mr. Donald D. Casson The A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation Mr. A. James and Mrs. Alice B. Clark The Clifton Foundation The Concordia Foundation Dock Street Foundation Mr. William W. “Buck” Duncan George B. Todd Fund at MSCF The Grayce B. Kerr Fund, Inc. Ms. Martha Ann Healy Mr. & Mrs. Thomas and Cathy Hill Mr. & Mrs. Willam T. Hunter, Jr. Knapp Educational Fund Ms. Barbara Lane Maryland Department of Education Maryland Department of Housing and Community
Development Maryland Humanities Merriewold Trust Mid-Shore Community Foundation Jerome & Grace Murray Foundation The Nathan Foundation The Owen Cheatham Foundation Ms. Rebecca Roberts The Seraph Foundation Shore United Bank St. John Foundation, Inc. The Starr Foundation Talbot County Economic Development Talbot County Public Schools Templeton Foundation Town Creek Foundation The United Fund of Talbot County The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore Verizon Foundation
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16 Character Counts Mid Shore REMEMBERING & CELEBRATING 23 YEARS
Mr. A. James Clark
No celebration of Character Counts Mid Shore’s journey would be complete without remembering the legacy of Mr. A. James Clark. From the inception of Character Counts Mid Shore to today, we owe a debt of gratitude to this visionary and passionate leader. Serving as a founding Trustee of our organization, Mr. Clark helped to shape Character Counts Mid Shore’s mission and impact from the very beginning. He lit the path of character growth for “Mr. Clark believed in his our organization — and our community — by doing what all dreams and was willing to great leaders do; he led by example, demonstrating work hard to achieve those dreams. It amazes me that he a characterful life through his words and actions. began his first job making ten Mr. Clark had a deep, personal commitment to cents an hour,yet, became integrity, honesty, responsibility, and fairness. He very successful. I will work lived these values in all he did: with his family and with the friends, in his professional life, and in his community same ethics and drive involvement. to honor Mr. Clark.”
Matthew King 2017 Recipient of the A. James Clark Character Counts Scholarship
Character Counts Mid Shore is grateful to Mr. Clark and his family for the boundless generosity of wisdom, energy, time, and financial support we have received in our pursuit of building characterful youth.
CELEBRATING legacies of character
remembering a leader who exemplified character
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CELEBRATING legacies of character
honoring a legacy of characterful service
The Donald D. Casson Character Counts Scholarship Mr. Donald D. Casson was a passionate and committed Character Coach volunteer from the founding of Character Counts Mid Shore until his passing in 2019. According to Mr. Casson’s family, “his most rewarding volunteer role was acting as one of the first Character Coaches with Character Counts Mid Shore, coaching third-graders on the Six Pillars of Character for 10 years. He believed in family, friends, character and serving others.” Inaugurated in 2019, the Donald D. Casson Character Counts Scholarship honors Mr. Casson’s legacy of investing in the development of youth into capable, characterful adults. The scholarship fund has been endowed at the Mid-Shore Community Foundation to award two $1,500 scholarships annually. Graduating Talbot County seniors will be eligible for the award.
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administered in conjunction with
Lauren Kay Weber
Character Counts Mid Shore Executive Director
“Our lessons live on through the students. The students have shared stories with me about how they use the lessons. They have told me that they can better control their emotions by using what they have learned. They have even told me how they taught the lessons to their little brother, sister, cousin, or friend... and even their parents!” Coach Bob Hyman
Talbot County Character Coach Volunteer
“Character Counts Mid Shore coming together with For All Seasons will be something positive and synergistic for our kids and our community. What a powerful investment for improving the wellbeing of students... This is an exciting time!” Bill Allen
Supervisor of Pupil Services at Caroline County Public Schools
“Character Counts has been an important part of my civic engagement over the past 20 years. The program served an important role in educating our youth about character, specifically the ethics and morals that are expected of them as they become citizens of our community. I am thrilled to know that the organizaton’s educational roots and commitment to youth will continue with For All Seasons as they help our youth develop the necessary skills to navigate today’s complex world and become healthy and productive adults.” Amy Steward
CELEBRATING: parting thoughts
“The important work of changing young people’s lives requires many different strategies working in tandem. For All Seasons is the perfect home for developing a holistic approach. I’m eager for you to join me on this journey.”
Emeritus Board Member & Decade-Long Character Coach
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