The Institute for Character Development (ICD) at Drake University in Des Moines has long cultivated partnerships between schools, communities and civic organizations through the Iowa Youth Character Awards and various character-development training seminars.
In 2001 the ICD selected a Youth Training Core of 13 members from a pool of high school students in the greater Des Moines area. These individuals took part in an intensive, 60-hour training program, including the Trust Walk, and are now available to work with groups of youth in schools implementing character education.
The Youth Training Core has undertaken a variety of trainings and activities, including:
- In-service training for high school faculty and staff
- Presentations to high school classes
- Presentations at elementary school assemblies
- Presentation to the ICD training team members
- Training middle school students to use activities with CC! during their advisor/advisee times
- Training high school students in the character message and empowering them to take a leadership role in their schools
- Helping decorate the ICD tree at the Festival of Trees and Lights, a benefit for Blank Children's Hospital
- Speaking at meetings of civic and service organizations
During CC! Week 1998, some 240 elementary students gathered at the State Historical Building for an all-day celebration hosted by the ICD. The Des Moines police department rock band "Legal Limit," played, a proclamation from the governor was read, and students from Clegg Park School put on a performance. Ronald McDonald also visited with his Six Pillar-based show "On the Inside." In addition, libraries and elementary schools throughout the state showed the CC! Coalition’s "Kids for Character" children’s video, coordinated litter-removal activities and displayed books focusing on ethics and character.
