Children who perform good deeds around the community will now be recognized and rewarded through a new initiative called the “Do The Right Thing” award. The program was started by Terri Ketover in Miami in the ’90s and has since expanded to dozens of cities across the US. Now, children in the Coachella Valley can also be nominated for the award.
Nominations open to all children up to 18 years old
Any child up to 18 years old can be nominated for the award by a teacher, parent, police officer, or any adult in the community. Every month, a handful of children will be recognized through a ceremony at the Palm Springs Police department and will also receive recognition from KESQ. This new initiative aims to build self-esteem in youngsters by reinforcing socially-desirable behavior and demonstrating that good kids are newsworthy and can serve as role models for their peers.
Encouraging positive behavior
According to Chief Andy Mills, awarding children in this way puts them on the right path. “The older you get the more set in your ways you are,” he explained. “So this is an opportunity to really help encourage and mold young minds to be positive and just a great influence in our community.” Children who could be deserving of the award include those who turn in lost items, help someone in need, perform acts of service or volunteer around the community.
Recognizing positive attitudes and accomplishments
The “Do The Right Thing” award recognizes and rewards school-age youths in the Greater Palm Springs area for their positive attitude, behavior, and accomplishments. In addition to fostering positive relationships between young people and their local law enforcement officers, the program aims to recognize children who have helped to keep their schools safe or have contributed to improving the environment.
Up to 350 nominations accepted each month
The Greater Palm Springs Chapter will accept up to 350 nominations each month from teachers, parents, police officers, and other adults in the community for school-age children who have performed good deeds or displayed positive behavior. This initiative provides an excellent opportunity to highlight and celebrate the positive actions of young people in the community and encourage others to do the same.
