Joseph Knollenberg: “children need role models in their communities to help guide them through the many challenges that they face. Although…”

“children need role models in their communities to help guide them through the many challenges that they face. Although we often hear inspiring stories about famous individuals, we seldom publicly recognize exceptional local people with whom children can more readily relate. The Michigan-based R.A.R.E. foundation has established a program to recognize outstanding community residents and teach children about their work ethic, their values, and their accomplishments. The foundation helps children develop a sense of purpose and hope for the future by providing inspirational examples of ordinary people with traditional jobs who make extraordinary contributions. I will introduce legislation today that encourages communities to adopt similar programs and support the goals and ideals of a national community role models week. Establishing an annual week for identifying role models in our local communities would remind us how each individual, no matter his or her profession, plays a vital role in the progress of this Nation.”