This paper describes the development of a character education program that is based on the concept of a "whole village partnership." The partnership was formed by a retiring chief executive officer (CEO) of a major corporation, who sought ways to help his community rededicate itself to the "core" values of democracy. The project is supported by a coalition of private business, philanthropic foundations, public broadcasting, and regional educators. Data were obtained from document analysis; group interviews with project committees; individual interviews with project administrators, staff, and teachers; and observations. Most persons and groups involved in the partnership cited the founding CEO as their motivation for joining the project. Although no empirical data exist, a pre- and post-test of 845 students in one participating district indicates that students know more about drugs and social-refusal skills, but have not improved their images about themselves or their schools. They also remain vulnerable to environmental stresses. However, the partnership is judged to be successful because its effective slogan system has provided leaders with a formal language structure and validated the beliefs of school practitioners. Its hierarchical organization has effectively transmitted the project's purpose from the primary partners to the principals and teachers. Superintendents, principals, and teachers said they liked the program because of its effect on students. The overall impact of this program is still open to debate. One figure and two tables are included. (LMI)