12/2010  - The Downey Unified School District, the City of Downey, community-based organizations and businesses formed a coalition to maximize resources and support for students. The goal of the initiative is to increase the focus on academics and unite diverse communities around a common language of values. The City Council mandates that city employees exemplify the Six Pillars of Character and the Downey Unified School District has integrated these Pillars into their application process to become an employee. Sports teams and other organizations are also involved in promoting the Pillars of Character.