Philosophy and Rationale:

The Our Hidden Heroes Social Responsibility/Character Education program for grades 1 through 8 is endorsed by educators, parents, students and policy makers. It has proven itself to enthuse and energize teachers and to empower and motivate children. It is as powerful as it is simple. Students learn that small things can make a big difference, and therefore that each one of them can impact the world one person, one family, one community at a time. They also learn that the world is populated by many more positive than negative role models; many more Hidden Heroes than hidden crooks. 

Hidden Heroes are ordinary people who are extraordinary role models; people who have much to teach us simply by the way they lead their lives consistently doing small positive things that any other ordinary person could do in similar circumstances; things that make a difference in their own lives and the lives of the people around them.

The Our Hidden Heroes model asks students to redefine their concept of what a hero is and what a hero does.  To make a significant difference in this world, you don't have to be a super hero relying on super powers, or a celebrity relying on fame, fortune or good looks. In fact we believe that it's not the one in a million heroes that make the biggest difference in this world, but rather it's the millions of Hidden Heroes, ordinary people consistently doing small, positive things that make a difference in their own lives or the lives of people around them. 

Hidden Heroes include people of all ages.  Through the ripple effect, these small actions can end up making a big difference.  Often the people who benefit most are people the Hidden Hero has never and will never meet. Our program motivates students to begin to realize that Hidden Heroes are there to be found in their families, their communities and their schools.  Students will also be given an opportunity to experience the joy, self-confidence and self-esteem that comes from becoming Hidden Heroes themselves