LDS in Gilbert, Arizona find way to teach character (Reading, writing and rectitude)
(Phoenix) AZ Republic 11Oct99 D1
By Kelly Pearce and Kelly Ettenborough: The Arizona Republic

Worried about the values being taught to children, the community of Gilbert, Arizona is trying to teach children a set of values through the public schools. After the town drafted a resolution calling for the use of the "Character First!" curriculum developed by a conservative Christian group, the ACLU fired off a letter to the town, warning them to tread carefully, and not teach religion in the classroom. In response, parents, teachers and religious leaders say that values can be taught without espousing any religion.

LDS Church leaders in Gilbert have found another way to teach values. Learning of a lack of kindness between Mormon and Catholic teenagers, local leaders of both religions put together the East Valley Youth Service Committee in 1997. Since that time more than 1,000 teenagers of both faiths have worked together on various service projects.