The Character Company

Probably one of the biggest failures of our time is that we have neglected to prepare our sons for their roles as the stewards of the dream for our rainbow nation”, says Jaco van Schalkwyk, The Character Company’s founder and Executive Director. “To turn the tide of violence, abuse and neglect we desperately need better role models, good men who are strong and courageous!” To help achieve a vision of raising good men with honourable values, our organisation works with key stakeholders to support selected boys from disadvantaged, single-parent homes, providing them with financial support and, importantly, a focused mentoring programme. This includes personalized interventions on a regular basis to prepare the child to play a positive role as an adult in society. Activities are structured, often in groups, to reinforce the individual’s sense that he is special and can have high expectations of himself. The ultimate goal is to grow boys of integrity who communicate effectively and are respectful, honest, self-disciplined, courageous, protective and committed. Armed with these characteristics as they enter high school they should be less likely to be susceptible to getting involved in irresponsible sexual activity, gangs, drugs and other destructive behaviour.