We were introduced to Aaron Eilerts in 2007. As an Iowa Character Awards honorable mention, he was attending the Awards banquet. He wore his Boy Scout Uniform and gleemed with pride to be there.

What we knew of Aaron was mostly through his remarkable Iowa Character Award nomination. He gave back to his school and community daily – with a smile and true passion for helping others.

Sadly, Aaron’s life of giving ended on a summer day in June 2008 when a tornado hit the Little Sioux Boy Scout Ranch. Although his life ended too soon, his legacy carries on.

Aaron’s hometown of Eagle Grove is furthering Aaron’s work by continuing many of his service projects. They proudly work with the Governor’s office to organize the annual Aaron Eilerts Day of Service & Giving on February 24 – Aaron’s birthday.

It’s only a month away – so we hope you give some thought to how you can pay tribute to a special young man and give back to your community on February 24.proclamation and letter from Governor Culver.

In 2009, we were proud to present Aaron’s parents with an award for Aaron, posthumously. He was the first recipient of our Community Service Award, and going forward, the award will be called the Aaron Eilerts Service Award. As we approach award nomination season, we invite you to begin thinking about who you can nominate for one of our Iowa Character Awards.

Citizenship is the duties, rights, conduct and responsibilities of a citizen. Here are few examples of citizenship in action:

• Do your share
• Be a good neighbor
• Volunteer
• Pursue the common good
• Respect the law and authority
• Observe just laws
• Help the community
• Protect the environment
• Participate in making things better by voicing your opinion, voting, serving on committees, reporting wrong doing and paying taxes

Often times, people reference citizenship as the Pillar that is the most difficult for them. Maybe that it sometimes require taking action. We are usually presented with opportunities or situations to be trustworthy or caring. But, doing our share, volunteering, helping the community or voting requires us to take initiative.

What about you? Now that we’ve highlighted each of the Six Pillars of Character – with which one do you find the most challenging?