“It takes more than knowledge to get and maintain a job. Etiquette and manners are not automatic or inherited; they are indeed learned behaviors that must be taught. Our students are learning the key soft skills that will give them a competitive edge. How can we expect our youth, employees, college graduates to compete in today’s job market if they don’t know the rules?”   

Courtesy Counts Founder Ganesa Robinson

Launched in March 2002, Courtesy Counts is a national non-profit, publicly-supported organization that was created to fulfill a need. As an educator, Robinson saw a need for leadership programs like the ones she grew up with as a child. In addition to teaching academics, Robinson found herself having to incorporate sporadic mini lessons on manners and common courtesies as a way to modify inappropriate behavior. These mini lessons expanded into a full service program that has served over 3,500 participants in Los Angeles, CA and Washington D.C.  

Our mission is to develop and deliver innovative educational workshops that will inspire and improve one’s ability to compete in today’s society.  We instill in our students the philosophy of treating others with respect so that they can contribute to society in a positive and effective manner.

The purpose of Courtesy Counts is to teach etiquette, presentation skills and professional development training to children, youth, adults, schools and organizations. The focus of the organization is to spread awareness about the importance of appropriate behavior in casual, business and professional settings. We cover everything from presenting yourself with poise and confidence to learning how to dine like a diplomat while conducting business or an interview over a meal.   Our programs are designed to teach participants etiquette guidelines through direct instruction, role playing scenarios and hands-on activities.  Using a customized curriculum, Courtesy Counts serves as a vehicle to better prepare individuals for business and social success.

Courtesy Counts has worked with both corporations and educational institutions such as Girl Scouts of America, Department of Children and Family Services, Youth Opportunity Movement-Watts, Los Angeles Unified School District, 21st Century After-School Grant, LA NAACP Job Preparation Program, Wakefield High School, D.C. Adolescent Wellness Institute, HR Solutions Temporary Agency and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc., Boys & Girls Club of America, local group homes, Workforce Development job training programs and many more. To date, Courtesy Counts, Inc. has trained over 3,500 youth and professionals on etiquette and professional development skills.