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Know a child who's done the right thing?
Some of them have saved lives, such as the boy who pulled a crossing guard out of the path of a car operated by an impatient driver. Others have indirectly saved lives by being observant, including the girl who saw that her neighbor's home was on fire. Her father pulled a wheelchair-bound man to safety. Many have simply performed a random act of kindness by volunteering to help others after school or returning money found on a school bus.
Although their acts are each unique, these children share something in common. They did the right thing.
The "Do the Right Thing" program, sponsored by the Cheektowaga Police Department's Crime Resistance Unit, is seeking nominations for its annual awards. The program is designed to recognize youths who distinguish themselves by their behavior and become role models among their peers.
This worthwhile program often works hand-in-hand with the DARE (Drugs Awareness, Reduction, Education) Program. Parents and teachers say that Do the Right Thing has boosted the self esteem and personal awareness of many children.
The Cheektowaga Times has been proud to sponsor the Do the Right Thing program, and every year our staff looks forward to publishing the names of these outstanding young citizens and their stories. We hope that our readers do as well, and we encourage them to nominate someone deserving. It's a great way to give a special person a little recognition for doing something good in a society where it sometimes appears that bad behavior receives the most recognition.
The Do the Right Thing program originated in Miami, and Cheektowaga became the second police department in New York State to become a charter member. The program is run in cooperation with the town's school districts and receives support from area businesses.
Teachers, parents or any citizen may nominate the individual. Each academic year, a committee reviews the nominations and selects the outstanding children. Each recipient is awarded a plaque of recognition from the chief of police and a proclamation from the town supervisor at a special ceremony.
For more information, contact the police department's Crime Resistance Unit at (716) 897-7215. Nominations must be received by May 11.
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