Doing the right thing
Character Does Matter Mentors develop character and leadership skills in young adults. Grounded in the evidence-based field of Positive Psychology, they use a strengths-based approach to develop character traits in the next generation through a combination of informal discussions and activity-based learning.
First, more than 55% of veterans feel disconnected from civilian life.
Second, more than one in three young people – that’s 16 million young adults – never had a positive role model or mentor.
Both groups improve their overall well-being through engagement, stronger relationships and developing purpose through serving others.
CDM Mentors connect with youth
Character and Leadership Presentations
By sharing stories of real people who exemplify great character and leadership, CDM Mentors demonstrate what it means to live the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos – and then challenge students to do the same.
Veteran and Youth Mentorship
CDM Mentors build relationships with young adults, helping them develop character and leadership through day-long and multi-day experiences, to include team-building exercises, group discussions and experiential learning challenges. As part of the program, students commit to participating in a service project in honor of fallen heroes.
FOLLOW THESE THREE STEPS TO BECOME A MENTOR
Create a Spartan Development Center Account
The Spartan Development Center is TMF's online training and resource center. It is the 24/7 portal where you will access TMF training courses and our extensive resource library to help you bring our programs to your community.
Complete an Introductory Online Course
After you register for your free account, you'll be able to complete the TMF Leading With Your Strengths Course. It is designed to help you learn about your personal character strengths and start to identify your values and passions in order to enhance your well-being. You must complete this online course as part of your CDM Mentor training.
Attend an In-Person or Virtual CDM Mentor Training Session
The training will cover our character development curriculum and fully prepare volunteers to deliver it to students in their communities. Volunteers who complete the training will have all the resources they need to deploy the Character Does Matter program.
GET STARTED NOW >>Additional Programmatic Support From
This program is powered in part by Wounded Warrior Project® to honor and empower post-9/11 injured service members, veterans, and their families
Bring CDM to your students
The program is completely free for schools and youth groups thanks to TMF’s generous supporters.
request nowJoin an open CDM classroom
TMF Veteran Mentors host character lessons for students and/or classes to join virtually. Click below for upcoming sessions.
Join an "Open" Classroom
