When did you learn to parallel park?

Imagine the impossible and then just do it! 

Blues, Barbecue and Optimism

I could have chosen a picture of a musician or some fine looking barbecue, but I chose this picture to depict the Blues Festival organized by the Optimist Club in Lebanon, Ohio because it is what a festival is all about: community. Any time you can bring your community together to celebrate music, arts, or just living life to the fullest, it is a wonderful thing.

The Optimist Club of Lebanon is often asked, why host a blues festival? The organizers are quick to reply, "It brings so many aspects of Lebanon together. People who like barbecue and blues bring a great atmosphere.”

In addition to music and food, the event also offers a 5K Run, a Classic Car Show and evening events for children. But the centerpiece is the music and the good news is the music is free. It's no wonder they drew 15,000 attendees last year and are expecting at least that many again this year.

Don't miss it - August 1, 11 am to 11 pm, Broadway and Mulberry Streets, Lebanon, Ohio.

Check out the 2008 Photo Gallery from the Dayton Daily News.

New Optimist Club meets at Grumpy's

Life is about the small things that make you smile. When I discovered that the brand new Optimist Club of Marana, Arizona was meeting at a place called Grumpy's; well, I just had to smile. I also had to share that little tidbit with you.

Marana lies northwest of Tucson. The new club joins sixteen other Optimist Clubs in the Tucson area in fulfilling the mission of bringing out the best in children. Although the clubs are made up of many business owners, the organizers emphasized that this is not a business networking group. The mix is a good cross section of employers, employees and residents. Mayor Ed Honea and Councilwoman Patti Comerford are members of the new club.

Newly elected club president John Coppin shared his vision, "We want to make sure every child doesn't ever have to worry about feeling alone in this world."

Congratulations on organizing. We wish you much success as you provide friendships, smiles and service to your community.

The Marana Optimist Club meets at 7 a.m. the second Wednesday and at 8 a.m. the fourth Saturday of each month at Grumpy's Jr. Bar & Grill, 8235 N. Silverbell Road.

Optimist Club collects Tools for School

Already? That's what I thought when I saw that the Optimist Club of Fort Payne, Alabama was already preparing to send students back to school with the annual Tools for School supply drive. But it is that time of year and with school beginning in only one month, the Optimists are looking for school supplies or any other things that a student might need.

Each year, more than forty students are helped directly through the Childcare Resource Network. With a nod to the unemployment rate, club president Brian Baine explained that this year they also plan to have supplies available at the Fort Payne Career Center for parents who may have recently lost their job.

The drive officially kicks off on July 23 and runs through August 10. Supplies may be dropped off in DeKalb County at Wal-Mart, Foodland, the Career Center, Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce and Timesaver on DeSoto Parkway.

School supply drives are an easy and meaningful project for any Optimist Club to perform. If you are not sure where or how to donate, contact a school or school district in your local community and offer to adopt a class or spearhead a program. They will give you tips on what's needed, where it's needed, and how to be successful.

Imagine the energy of a college Optimist Club

The University of California, Santa Barbara proudly hosts an Optimist Club. It's made up of students, alumni, faculty and staff. What I find most interesting about this club and what I hope to share with you today is a glimpse into their energy.

First, take a look at the banner. It is simple and vibrant with bright yellow and red colors. The block letters declare that the focus is on being an Optimist and the fresh, young happy face lets you know the club is about kids. The @ UCSB reminds us that the members are probably young and have grown up in a technology driven world.

For the next look, you have to visit the members section of their website. Go ahead - click it - it's worth it! Have you ever seen a president more excited about leading her cause? While you are there, click on the other members photos and find out more about them. For this generation, transparency is the new black.

Finally, while you are still on their website, take a look at what they are about, what they have accomplished and who they partner with to carry out their mission.

Optimist Clubs began forming on college campuses a little over ten years ago. With this much energy to share, I am sure happy that they are a part of the extended Optimist family.

It's worth the look: Ankenny Optimist 5K Walk/Run

Yes, a picture is worth a thousand words. That means this twenty-picture photo gallery must be worth 20,000 words. Please click on the link to take you to the Des Moines Register Online where I promise you will enjoy the Ankenny Optimist Club 5k 1 Mile Walk/Run. This is the fourth year for the event. Young, old, male, female, able-bodied and those in wheelchairs enjoyed the day. Ankenny Optimist Club photo gallery.

Calling all youth-serving organizations in Tigard, Oregon

Fundraising! Every club does it, but some clubs help others with their fundraising efforts as well. The Optimist Club of Tigard, Oregon is one of those kind of clubs. Every year, they invite other community serving causes to join in the Annual Florence Yoder Friend of Youth Memorial Walkathon. The Optimist Club provides the venue and administration for the event. Everyone provides the enthusiasm, energy and sponsors to their unique causes.

According to event coordinator Carla Mito, the Tigard High School Snowboarders, Equestrians and the Cross Country Team have committed to participate. Mito hopes other youth organizations will take advantage of the opportunity. The event runs from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 1. Want to know how it's done? Contact Mito at carla.mito [at] gmail.com.

PDF version of original article from Oregonlive.com.

The Sanibel~Captiva Optimist Club’s 30th Annual 4th of July Road Rally

I've seen show and shines, poker runs and road rallies before, but something about the Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club's activity just hit my fancy. It might be the location - Florida - with the beach colors in the background. But more likely, it was the happy road racers in the red convertible. You can tell they are having fun being part of their Optimist Club. Optimist Club members perform a lot of projects that make their communities a better place to live. Enjoying themselves is a pleasant and appreciated bonus. Please click on the link for a full description of the event.

The Sanibel~Captiva Optimist Club’s 30th Annual 4th of July Road Rally

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Find your calling to serve

This notice @ niagarathisweek.com caught my attention:

"The Boys and Girls Club of Niagara is seeking volunteers to help work the Lions Club bingo at the Optimist Club on June 28, 29, 30, and July 1, 2009. If you would like to come out and help please contact Dana Snyder at events@boysandgirlsclubniagara.org."

Add in the Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club and everyone would come to the party! This has been the way of many service organizations in recent years; they all lend their hands to help each other accomplish tasks and carry out fund raising activities. Since the mottos of the major service clubs are similar, one might wonder why so many different clubs are needed.

Kiwanis International - Serving children of the world.

Lions Clubs International - We Serve.

Optimist International - Friend of youth.

Rotary International - Service above self.

The reason is simple; each club goes about their mission a little differently. Rotary clubs unite business professionals in service. Optimist clubs bring community leaders together with business and offer a positive outlook on life. Kiwanis clubs have artfully blended the above together for an eclectic membership base and Lions clubs were the first to capitalize on membership for all walks of life with a unified international service project.

I encourage you to visit a service club in your community, find the one that fits your personality and get involved. Yes, I like Optimist Clubs because of the Optimist Creed, but I know that every flavor of club is needed. You are needed. Don't miss your calling to serve.

Optimist Club of Hagerstown, IN says Happy Sweet Sixteen

What would you think if a big bunch of Optimists turned out for your birthday? That is just what happened in Richmond, Indiana when the Optimist Club of Hagerstown surprised Whitney Jennings for her 16th birthday celebration. They brought a special gift: a handicap accessible van to help Whitney go more places.

Whitney has had health complications since very early in her life when she was diagnosed with diabetes. In 2007 she suffered a stroke in her spinal column during a multipurpose surgery. The spinal cord injury left her paralyzed and requires her to use different medical devices daily. The community has stepped in to help with upgrading the electricity in her family's home and expanding her bedroom to accommodate the equipment. Friends from the Boy's and Girl's Club frequently visits her, but the van will help her visit others.

It's a special community that works together to make a young woman feel included. Read the full story here.

Frankfort Optimist Club takes part in Longest Day of Play

For three years Franklin County, Kentucky has celebrated the longest day of the year as the Longest Day of Play. Sounds like a perfect event for kids, but it is meant for kids of all ages. According to the Franklin County Health Department, Kentucky ranks fifth in the nation for heart related mortality, sixth in the nation for diabetes related mortality, and second in the nation for inactivity.

The event at Lakeview Park in Frankfort, KY is designed to get people moving. Different groups and organizations man activity stations and help children and adults play. The Optimist Club of Frankort was in charge of the scooter obstacle course. What fun! And as the famous athletic shoe maker says, just do it! Get active now.

Optimist Club helps Battle Creek celebrate 150 years

Battle Creek, MI - the cereal city, home to Kellogg Company and their famous breakfast cereals celebrated Fun Before Breakfast last week with the help of the Optimist Club of Battle Creek.

The event kicked off with a parade with the noisy Snap, Crackle and Pop threesome. Clowns, Shriners, motorcycles and classic cars traveled down Michigan Avenue for this family event. The big attraction though happened as promoted - before breakfast - when the community laid out the world's longest breakfast table and everyone enjoyed a meal together from 8:00 to 10:00 am on Saturday, June 14, 2009. The fun continued into the afternoon when other cereal celebrities made an appearance. This was the 150th celebration of the city of Battle Creek.

Photo courtesy of The Battle Creek Enquirer.

Optimist Club raises awareness for their amazing programs

Optimist Clubs really do amazing things in all communities that they touch. They build playgrounds, hold relay races, sponsor scholarship programs, take kids to the movies, buy them lunch and many other big and small projects.

The main thing that every Optimist Club does is provide services needed most in their hometown. Our mission is to help Optimist Clubs promote their good deeds. We look for special programs and spotlight them on our blog. It is especially rewarding when we find Optimist Clubs making a concerted effort to promote themselves.

Kudos to the Optimist Club of Meridian, Idaho for telling their story to all who will listen. They will be walking the streets, talking to businesses and inviting Meridian residents and business owners to learn more by visiting a club meeting. According to the club spokesperson, communication creates transparency and awareness. They would love to add members from the effort, but most of all they want people to know that the Optimist Club is there when you need them.

Optimist Club of Shelby, NC contributes $40,000 for universally accessible playground

Here is a big project that required using a lot of savings, but according to the Optimist Club of Shelby, NC, it was worth it. In conjunction with the Shelby Parks and Recreation Department, the Club has supported the Optimist Park which includes a ball field, recreation space, playground and picnic area.

Over the years, the equipment became worn and deteriorated so this year the ten-member Optimist Club decided it was time for renovations - $40,000 worth of playground equipment that is safer and more accessible for children of all abilities.

According to Optimist Club President Roger Wuest, the community could make a lot of improvements if other groups would dedicate themselves to similar projects. The Optimist Club performs annual fund raising activities and saves a little each year for a really big project like this, but it also required the club to dip into their savings. That savings is made up of kind donations given in remembrance over the years for and by past Optimist Club members.

With a 56-year heritage, the Optimist Club is seeking new members. They welcome the community to join them at the community barbecue held on the first Thursday of every month during the summer, 6:00 pm, Optimist Park where they can learn more and sample the park for themselves.

Optimist Clubs are always on the lookout for new members

In order to provide uninterrupted service in our communities, Optimist Clubs must replenish themselves. So while there are no bright young people that directly benefit from this activity, every child indirectly benefits when an Optimist Club holds a membership drive.

The Optimist Club of Steamboat Springs, CO recently had a nice article published about their membership drive. According to Rob McCarthy, a twenty year veteran member, he joined because his kids, now 21 and 25, enjoyed the club's activities. Ron Wendler has eight years of membership to his credit. He says that it is all about the kids and in order to keep their activities going, they need adults to ensure it happens.

Not every Optimist Club advertises that they are welcoming new members. I think that is such a mistake; it's almost like they forget to say they are open for business. But don't be afraid to seek out the Optimist Club in your town. I promise, they will welcome you with open arms.

Find a club near you with this directory.

More than sixty students participate in Optimist Oratorical Contest in Pensacola

The Optimist International Oratorical Contest has been challenging students for seventy-eight years, but this is absolutely the largest, youngest, and most optimistic group of orators that I have ever seen. More than sixty youngsters in grades 3, 4, and 5 from the Pensacola Beach
Elementary School were delighted to share their versions of "What Optimism means to me..."

The finalists were:

Third Grade: Macy Mateer, Abby Jacobs and Zosia Uszok
Fourth Grade: Starfish Holk, Reddon McLaurine and Kylie Finkbone
Fifth Grade: Lia Lampone, Lexi McNamara and Trey Wright.

Winning the competion were:

First Place: Macy Mateer,
Second Place: Abby Jacobs, and
Third Place: Kylie Finkbone.

All participants participated in a celebration following the event. Congratulations to the Optimist Club of Pensacola Beach, FL for a very successful Optimist Oratorical Contest. See the article in the Gulf Breeze News.

Three hundred young artists participate in Optimist Art Expo

More than 700 pieces of art designed by more than three hundred students made up the immense body of work at the Allegheny Valley Optimist Club's "Cultural Arts Expo 2009" on April 27.

This is the fourth year that the club has coordinated the event. According to Optimist Club member Rege Fleck it is a great way to teach, recognize and inspire children. The exposure and experience of displaying their artwork in a professionally designed setting gives them an appreciation they don't receive from earning a grade. It helps them learn the business, share their passion and accept praise.



In addition to helping children from preschool age through high school showcase their creativity, the Allegheny Valley Optimist Club of Tarentum, PA also awarded a $500 scholarship to Springdale senior graphics artist Tyler Tomasino. Tyler was recognized for his service to others, helping them create posters and advertisements for their clubs and projects. He also helped design a poster for this show.

Read more about it online at Pittsburgh Live or see a pdf version of the original story here.

Fishing for Families with the Sunrise Optimist Club of Columbia, MO

The Sunrise Optimist Club of Columbia, MO has a close relationship with the Coyote Hills Children's Home. The latest activity was new program for this year: Fishing for Families. The kids and Optimists shared a day of fun with all of the catch going to the Central Missouri Food Bank.

The Coyote Hills Children's Home is a recipient of the food bank, but according to Optimist sponsors and mentors, the activity let them learn that all could contribute by reaching out a hand to help someone.

Food Bank Director Peggy Kirkpatrick said this was a unique project. No group has ever "caught" their donation to the food bank.

I think you'll agree that the Columbia Tribune gave the project the right headline: "Catching Compassion." Read as a pdf file here.

Optimist Club of Paris, ON to build skateboard park

The Optimist Club of Paris, Ontario is celebrating its 6oth Anniversary this year. As one of their pet projects, they have decided to raise $360,000 for a skateboard park. According to members, it's a big amount of money to raise, but they can do it because they are Optimists.

They plan to partner with the County of Brant to secure the land and they are seeking a grant from the Trillium Foundation, but the major portion of the money will come from fund raising and in kind donations. Skateboards.com is sponsoring a skateboard event with money raised going to the park and young boarders have been raising money by taking the message to other local events.

It is a community effort driven by the "old time" Optimists. Now that's one way to stay young. Read the full article here.

Optimist Club of Mandeville, Jamaica reaches out with love

Some Optimist Clubs choose to perform really big projects and they garner newspaper articles and praise for the large contributions. I am always so excited when I see a small, meaningful project make headlines and that is the feeling I have about this project from the Optimist Club of Mandeville, Jamaica.

Members of the Optimist Club visited the Hanbury Home and provided a day of entertainment and caring. Hanbury Home is made up of 80 orphaned young people. The children thrived from the interaction provided by the Optimists which including reading stories, talking one-on-one with them and providing hugs. The House Mother said the visit provided positive relations for the children, but that the adults also helped her complete her tasks.

We often forget how lending our hands and hearts in such a simple way can make a difference in the lives of so many. Thank you to the Optimist of Mandeville. Keep reaching out to others.

Fishing Derby hosted by Optimist Club of Bixby, OK

As we head into summer, what could be a better activity than fishing? You guessed it! Teaching kids to fish. That was part of the fun at the 34th Annual Optimist Fishing Derby hosted by the Optimist Club of Bixby, OK.

Bixby area personalities Dick Faurot of Channel 6 and Keith and Cody Hays of KWHB-46 were on hand to offer fishing advice and film footage that will be aired on an upcoming edition of The Future of Fishing.

According to the Optimists, 78 children from ages 2 to 15 participated in the derby. The largest fish was a black bass caught by young Easton Abel. It weighed in at 1 pound, 13 ounces. All participants received T-shirts and all the hot dogs they could eat from the Optimist Club. Zebco provided prizes for all winning anglers.

What great summer fun! See the article online at the Bixby Bulletin. Or on Scribd: Bixby Fishing Derby. Photo courtesy of Anthony Jumper.

Junior Optimist Club pays it forward in Farmington Hills, MI

“A small group of people coming together can make a big difference,” said Abhinav Reddy , a kindergarten student at the Highmeadow Elementary School in Farmington Hills, MI.

Idealistic thoughts for such a little person? Maybe so, but that is what being a part of a Junior Optimist Club is all about. The Highmeadow Elementary School recently added the Junior Optimist Club program to their list of extracurricular activities and just last week, the group completed their first community service project, a walkathon to benefit another youth serving organization: the Farmington Area Goodfellows.

Junior Optimist Clubs are student driven. With minor support from the sponsoring adult Optimist Club, the students develop, plan and execute their own projects. There are 18 students in the Highmeadow Elementary School Junior Optimist Club. For this program they recruited students from neighboring schools and enlisted parents as chaperones for the five mile hike. The Optimist Club of Farmington-Farmington Hills manned the snack stations around the course. It was a great activity, raising more than $2,000 in a pay-it-forward fashion, from one group to the next so that all can do more for others.

“I wanted to do something good. I wanted to make a difference,” said Nadia Morman-Williams, another kindergarten student. Well you did Nadia; you and your classmates all did so good! Thank you!

Read more in hometownlife.com or read the story here.

Recognizing kids is what we do

Please enjoy a short break from Optimist Club projects as we note another awesome opportunity for kids.

Kudos to Google! With their immeasurable reach, they have once again offered an art contest for children in grades K-12 in the US. The program is called Doodle 4 Google. Children are asked to submit their drawings of the famous Google logo incorporating the theme of the year. This year's theme was "What I wish for the World." The national winner for 2009 was Christin Engelberth, Bernard A. Harris Jr High School, San Antonio, TX. Take a look at all US state finalists in the Doodle 4 Google competition. Enjoy!

Optimist Club refurbishes pool in Waxahachie

It began with a community effort in 1950, so it makes sense that it would be refurbished with a community effort in 2009. What is it? The Optimist Pool in Waxahachie, TX. The pool is being renovated with help from the Optimist Club, local contractors and the Waxahachie Foundation. The pool will reopen to the community on June 6.

Do you have to be an Optimist to chill out at the Waxahachie Optimist Pool? Of course not! The pool is open to the community. After all, the primary purpose of an Optimist Clubs is to help all children.

Optimist Club offers cash reward for new ideas

Here is a great way to help young people bring a charitable idea to fruition. The Optimist Club of Anguilla, B.W.I. is inviting persons between 13 and 30 years of age to apply for a Youth in the Community award.

The goal of the award is to recognize young people who are currently working on projects that benefit the youth of Anguilla. The projects must directly benefit the youth of Anguilla, be ongoing, be not-for-profit and have a social, educational, or sportsman benefit for youth.

Recipients will receive a weekend getaway as a personal reward and a monetary award that must be used for the project. What a great way to recognize new thinkers and doers.

More Respect for Law activities by Optimist Clubs

More and more Optimist Clubs are celebrating Respect for Law this month. Some of the honors include:

Optimist Club of Moberly, MO honor four outstanding officers.
Optimist Club of Lebanon, OH names officer of the year.
The Breakfast Optimist Club of Clay County, IN sponsors ISP camp for children.
Optimist Club of Salisbury, NC honors officer of the year.
Optimist Club of Chattanooga, TN names captain of Sheriff's Dept. with Respect for Law honor.

Optimist Clubs join with Kiwanis for bike fair

Children in Billings, MT enjoyed a bike fair over the weekend courtesy of the Billings Kiwanis, Magic City and Riverside Optimist Clubs during the eleventh annual youth bicycle rodeo.

Children were fitted for bicycle helmets, rode obstacle courses and learned safety tips from the Billings Police Department. According to the Montana CBS affiliate, kids rode their own bikes to the event and the Optimist Club made sure that those without bikes recieved a refurbished one to take home.

What a great collaborative effort by the service clubs!

Optimist Club recognizes accomplishments of young students

Let's hear a big, "Oh, yeah! This is what Optimist Clubs are all about." The Optimist Club of Del Mar/Solana Beach, CA is the most recent Optimist Club to recognize students for doing simply great things.

Eleven students in grades 1 to 6 were recognized for excellence in community service, art, humanities, courage, fellowship and service. Enjoy the full story about the Optimist Club of Del Mar/Solana Beach.

Optimist Club assists students in a right of passage

One of the big events for many children and their parents is the day they receive their drivers license. Unfortunately, many schools have made driver's education optional and the price is out of reach for many families. According to the Optimist Club of Verona, WI that is not acceptable so they have created a scholarship fund to help students afford the training course.

Optimist member Holly Dowling and her husband County Court Commissioner Todd Meuer elaborated on the program by explaining that there is a "snowball effect" of not having a license - kids who can't afford them drive anyway so they can work, get caught and have even more trouble getting a license. And because they're not trained, they are more likely to be uninsured or flee the scene of an accident.

The Optimist Club of Verona hopes to build awareness and generate more funding for this much needed program that directly benefits kids and their communities.

Optimist Clubs are awesome

Try a Wordle. It's fun.

An open thank you to the Optimist Club of Anderson, IN

It is always heartwarming when a student does just a little more than expected. Just ask the Noon Optimist Club of Anderson, Indiana where a young oratorical contestant advanced from the club level competition, through the zone and then came in as the first place winner of District Optimist International Oratorical Contest. For his efforts, Chandler Carroll received a $1,500 scholarship and earned lots of great memories.

To show appreciation, he sent an open thank-you letter to the local newspaper. A thank you card to the club would have been nice, but sharing his enthusiasm for the event and the Noon Optimist Club was even nicer.

Congratulations to Chandler for your success and many compliments for your thoughtfulness.

Optimist Club holds Bike Safety and Tricycle Parade

Local police often get involved with the activities of our Optimist Clubs and that's another reason to salute the efforts of our men in blue. Recently, the Sheriff's Department and the Police Intermountain Biking Association joined the Optimist Club of New Iberia, LA to help instill bicycle safety to youngsters as the New Iberia Optimist Club held the Bike Safety and Tricycle Parade.

Optimist Club to hold 2-day Respect for Law celebration

Free, fun and family-oriented. That's the mission of Main Street Rogers being held May 15-16 in Rogers, Arkansas. The Optimist Club of Rogers, Arkansas is right there in the middle of the action.

The fun will include a Catfish Clinic and Fishing Derby, Heart of the Ozarks Car Show, old fashioned games, Fincher Fun Run, Historical Museum Open House, Twilight Walk and the Ninth Annual Optimist International Respect for Law Day.

The Respect for Law Day is a special attraction for it brings the local club together with law enforcement for the kids.

Across town, in front of the Rogers Police Station on Dixieland Road, the ninth annual Respect for Law Day will take place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Respect for Law Day is an Optimist International project. The local club partners with local law enforcement for an event that's free for local kids. According to Lt. Mike Johnson, "It's good for the police department to meet with families and kids and interact with them in a positive way." Some local children only see policemen when there's a problem at home, he said.

In addition to bonding with the police department, families can enjoy free pizza and hot dogs. Find out all about it at nwanews.com.

Optimist Clubs promote Respect for Law

One of the purposes of an Optimist Club is to promote respect for law. Optimist Clubs do this in different ways, sometimes involving children in their efforts, but often just recognizing the officers that make a difference in their community. A few Optimist Clubs have let me know that they recently held Respect for Law events where they honored those who serve:
Optimist Club of Jackson County, FL
Optimist Club of Dundalk, MD
Downtown Optimist Club of Meridian, MS

Thank you for recognizing their important contributions to your community.

Optimist Clubs are patriotic

The Optimist Club of Dor-Wood in Kettering, Ohio has combined forces with the Kettering Leadership Academy to show patriotism on all national holidays. Together they will create an Avenue of Flags for Labor Day, Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day and the Fourth of July.

The Dor-Wood Optimist Club acknowledges their inspiration comes from the neighboring Optimist Clubs of Springboro and Centerville Noon. All clubs involve the local business community through ongoing subscriptions to the service. For $40 annually, the Optimist Club cares for the displays and places and collects the flags.

Junior Optimist Club hosts "Senior Prom"

Optimist Clubs offer projects to benefit, involve or recognize children. Isn't it kind of neat when the kids turn that mission around? The Junior Optimist Club of Hawaii recently hosted a Senior Prom for the Lake Wylie Retirement Home and Assisted Living Center. To keep up their efforts, they are working with the residents at Lake Wylie to record their biographies.

Junior Optimist Clubs are sponsored by an adult Optimist Club; however, just like their grown-up counterparts, they decide their projects and raise the funds to ensure their completion.

High Five to the Junior Optimist Club of Hawaii. Find out more about Junior Optimist Clubs.

Optimist Clubs help other organizations make a difference

Around the world, Optimist Clubs are united as friends of youth and they share the uplifting mission "By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids." Some popular programs include oratorical and essay scholarship contests, youth appreciation awards, tri-star sports, respect for law, youth safety and the Optimist Junior Golf Championships.

But at home, in local communities, Optimist Clubs also provide support to other organizations. Here are some of the great contributions that are being made by our clubs this month:

The Optimist Club of Carlsbad, CA and the Optimist Club of Del Mar, CA will combine forces to feed 1,000 Special Olympians on May 30.

The Optimist Club of Huntington, W. Virginia shares volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club.

The Optimist Club of Yuma, AZ will raise funds for the Boys & Girls Club summer youth programs with the 31st annual Continental Night on May 15.

The Optimist Club of Gresham, OR coordinated a walkathon for all youth serving organizations in their community.

The Optimist Club of Lapeer County, MI supports Lapeer East and West High Schools by raising more than $100,000 for soccer fields.

Optimist Club honors kids "Caught in the Act"

The Optimist Club of Camdenton, MO is making a big deal of children doing little things. Every month, based on nominations from area schools, the Optimist Club recognizes students for being "caught in the act" of a random act of kindness. This can be little or big actions, but they are all positive behaviors recognized by others.

As part of the CITA Award, students receive a citation from the Optimist Club and area businesses have contributed things like free hamburgers, ice cream, movie rentals,swimming passes and more as small prizes for the achievements.

Way to go! You did so good!

Optimist Club predicts 600 children will enjoy Track & Field Day

According to Sandy Orr, President, Optimist Club of Cummings-Forsyth, GA, the 30th Annual Track and Field Day is “what we’re all about, seeing these kids have fun.” I agree!

After hosting more than 500 participants last year, the club is shooting for 600 this year. The event is completetly free and open to all students in the county from 1st through 5th grades. The children compete for ribbons in all events including 50- and 100-yard dashes, ball throw, long jump, 220- and 440-yard runs and relay races and the school that shows the most spirit is award the "Spirit Award" trophy. All participants receive a free T-shirt, hot dog, soda and participation ribbon.

Go team! Go kids! Go Optimists!

Optimist Clubs recognize the Power of Youth

The Power of Youth was the topic for the 26th Annual Optimist International Essay Contest. In 1983, Optimist International added essay writing to their list of recommended programs for Optimist Clubs to conduct. All contests begin at the Optimist Club level and advance through Zone, and District competition in an effort to win scholarships from $650 to $6,500.

Congratulations to the clubs for recognizing their youthful competitors in the local media:
Optimist Club of Kingston, Jamaica
Caribbean's best essay writers
The Optimist Club of Del Mar/Solana Beach

Optimist Clubs show appreciation for youth

This post may not seem like a big deal. After all, we've seen a couple similar ones already; but I believe the main purpose of an Optimist Club is to put on programs that benefit, involve or recognize children. To that end, I promise to publish every recognition program I discover where the kids are recognized for something other than purely athletic or academic pursuits.

Kudos to:
The Capital Area Optimist Club of San Marcos, Texas recognized students at the Baptist Academy for arts, music and community services.

The Optimist Club of Flint Hills,KS for recognizing some outstanding students from the Emporia, Northern Heights, Olpe and Hartford high schools.

The Sunrise Optimist Club of Columbia, Missouri for recognizing the children at the Coyote Hills Christion Home with a college softball tailgate party and game.

Stories are welcome! Please send your links to linda [at] newoptimistclub (dot) com.

Junior Optimist Club will hold fundraiser for parent in coma

The Junior Optimist Club at Leonardo Da Vinci School in Sacramento is reaching out to help the father of one of their classmates. Working together with the Breakfast Optimist Club of Sacramento, they will hold a Pancake Breakfast on May 16. Proceeds will go towards the medical bills for Chi Cheng who remains in a coma as a result of a car crash in early November.

According to Diane Soule, community liaison for the school, the accident has taken a toll on the students. All parents are involved in the school, plus Mr. Cheng has an even higher profile as the bassist with the Deftones.

The fundraiser will be held at the school. High five to the Junior Optimists. Nice way to reach out to one of your own.

Optimist Club holds Safetypalooza

The Optimist Club of Christian County, Missouri has served more than five hundred children with an annual bike safety program dubbed Safetypalooza. According to chairperson Terri Baum and police officer Brent Forgey, bicycle safety is one of the main components of the event. Children are taught to be safe riders, use signals, and are fitted for helmets. Those without or with poor fitting helmets are given new ones courtesy of the local hospital program.

Bicycle safety is just one safety program conducted by thousands of Optimist Clubs each year. Optimist Clubs strive to keep kids safe and raise awareness against behaviors that could cause injury or harm. According to the chairperson for the Safetypalooza, wearing a helmet is important not only for children, but also for adults. "If you put kids in a fun, friendly environment and teach them something, it might stick with them a little bit better," said Optimist Terri Baum.

Isn't that true for children of all ages?

Optimist Club sponsors blood drive

The Optimist Club of Senoia, Georgia believes in giving the gift of life. That's why they have added quarterly blood drives to the annual calender of events they conduct and promote in Senoia.

This is an important event for the community; at least I think it is because the local paper, The Citizen, has written caringly about the blood drive sponsored by the Optimist Club. According to the Red Cross, they have exceeded their target goals in each of the previous events.

Isn't it great to know that your Optimist Club can make a difference in just one day?

Motorcycle rally benefits Optimist Club

This is the thirteenth year for the annual Hill Country Motorcycle Run in Luckenbach, Texas. Scheduled for this weekend, May 1-3, 2009, the promoters say this event is "More than just a plain old motorcycle rally." It features food, entertainment, friends, both new and old, and lots of riding through miles and miles of the friendly towns and beautiful vistas in Texas.

The Hill Country Run is a volunteer effort coordinated by the Optimist Club of Fredericksburg, Texas and all proceeds benefit Optimist Club projects including the T-Ball Program, Scholarship Program, Pioneer Memorial Library Reading Hour Program, Tri-Star Sports contests, Oratorical Contest, and Essay Contest. Visit www.hillcountryrun.com to find out more.

What a great project! It brings the community together, increases tourism and lets others contribute to the great activities sponsored by the local Optimist Club. Cheers!

Optimist Club forms food pantry

The official home page for the burough of California, Pennsylvania proudly displays the Optimist International logo. That's because the community is the beneficiary of a very active Optimist Club. Their latest activity was the creation of the community's only food pantry. According to founding Optimist Club member and former California mayor Gerald Gardner, they created the food pantry with help from the Washington County Food Bank after visiting the neighboring Ellsworth Food Pantry to learn the ropes.

The food pantry will officially be open for service on May 13. Other projects of the Optimist Club of California include care packages to troops in Iraq, a fire relief program, and the city's annual art and music festival, California Gold Rush Days. Not bad for a community of 6,000 people. Way to go Optimists!

Optimist Clubs award scholarships for essay writing

One of the greatest things adults can do is listen to children and through the Optimist Essay Contest, Optimists do just that. Optimist Clubs around the world hold essay contests and invite children through 18 years of age to participate for scholarships. The club winner is forwarded to the District where it is again judged and the winning essays move to the national competition where the top finalist receives a $6,500 scholarship. That's a pretty nice prize for 500 words or less.

This year the topic was "The Power of Youth." Take a look at some of the club entries here:

Optimist Club of Salem, Oregon
Optimist Club of Albany, Oregon

Optimist Club contributes pennies to charity

That's right...your pennies can make a difference; especially when they are combined with a lot of other pennies. The Optimist Club of Azle, Texas uses a penny drive each year to get students involved in philanthropy. From the Hoover Elementary School that raised $1288.63 all the way to the Azle High School that raised $2,174.87, the drive collected $1,726 more than last year and the most ever collected - $9,648.79.

The penny drive lasts for ten days and is supported by parents and teachers as well as students. Optimist Club president Darrell Helm said that everyone seemed to understand the importance of this year's drive being conducted despite such difficult economic times.

With great help from the community, the Optimist Club of Azle Penny Drive has raised nearly $50,000 since its inception in 2002.

How about a big high five for the Optimist Club of Azle for getting everyone involved!

Optimist Club leads Youth Summit

I was a little apprehensive about posting this link. Optimist Clubs help bring out the best in children by recognizing the good things that they do and by helping them to do more. I wasn't sure that I wanted "Optimist Clubs" and "youth violence" recognized together.

However, recognizing that a problem exists in your community and then developing solutions to respond to the problem is a true sign of leadership. The Optimist Club of Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica is doing just that. Responding to increased violence among teens, including murder, they have invited the community to participate in a Youth Summit that will engage youth and adults in all walks of life.

The event will also bring greater awareness to violence and the effect it has on their community. The Summit will also motivate others to be part of the solution. If we think about it, isn't that the true reason Optimist Clubs got their start so many years ago? While we have progressed from the motto "Friend of the Delinquent Boy" to "Friend of Youth" it is still our responsibility to be involved whenever and wherever we can make a difference.

High Five to the Optimist Club of Roseau for showing leadership.

Getting eggy with Optimist Clubs

There seems to be a connection between kids, candy and Optimist Clubs. Nothing brings the three together better than an Easter Egg Hunt. Optimist Clubs across the country participate in this annual rite of spring planning for weeks for the kiddoes to wipe the ground clean in only a couple of minutes. I've collected links to some media coverage to these egg-tastic events:

Optimist Club of Rapid City, SD
Optimist Club of Worthington, MN
Optimist Club of Havre, MT
Optimist Club of Meridian, ID

Optimist Club of Winchester, VA does things a little bit different by distributing Easter Baskets.

The Allouez Optimist Club of Green Bay, WI assists kids with special needs by hosting an Easter Egg Hunt with beeping eggs so that visually impaired children can enjoy the fun.

Just like our kids, Optimist Club Easter Egg Hunts come in all shapes and sizes, but the common ingredient, aside from the candy, is fun.

Optimist Club works with local media for members

The Optimist Club of Meridian, MS is looking for a few good women and men to help them further their mission of providing services for children. With the help of TV Station WTOK-News Center 11, they aired their search and invited others to participate in in their NOW activity.

Watch the Optimist recruitment video here. Find out how your club can host a NOW activity here.

NOW stands for New Optimists Wanted.

Proclaim Optimist Club Day in your hometown

Here is another great way to celebrate a milestone anniversary for your Optimist Club. Thanks to the Optimist Club of Morganton, North Carolina for the tip. The first link takes you to the post on the PNW District Optimist blog. The second link takes you to the article in the Morganton newspaper. Enjoy!

PNW Optimists: Proclaim Optimist Club Day in your hometown

The News Herald: Sunday is Optimist Day in Morganton

Optimist Club 50th anniversary idea

Here is a great idea that gives you something to think about doing today.

The Optimist Club of Freehold, New Jersey is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. In honor of this glorious occasion, they are looking for fifty people to share their stories of how Optimism has touched or influenced their lives. They are especially seeking past oratorical and essay contest winners, safety fair participants and scholarship recipients. I can't wait to see the results!

The action item for your Optimist Club to think about doing today: keep records and invite your past participants back to the club to talk about their experiences. Allow them to tell you about where they have gone and what they have done. After all, these are potential members for your Optimist Club. They know how Optimist Clubs make a difference in the lives of others and when they are ready to join a service organization, they will most likely think of giving back to the organization that helped them.

Good record-keeping helps you regularly celebrate your Optimist Club and the success of your friends, beneficiaries and colleagues.

Optimist Club to fulfill a twenty-five year goal

Some projects are bigger than others. Some projects can be done in a day and some take years to accomplish. But the beauty of an Optimist Club is that it provides a foundation on which to build. Optimist Clubs and their projects are totally scalable: you can start small, make a difference with the little things that you do, and keep a big vision or dream alive for when it can be completed.

The Optimist Club of Hornbeck, LA is about to achieve one of those grand visions. Twenty-five years ago, the Hornbeck Optimist Club was formed and they immediately began a baseball program, leasing land for $1/per year from a timber company. They built the beginning of the town's recreation program on that site and every time the the land changed hands they prayed that they could continue with their program. Four years ago, the city approached the land owners and finalized a deal to acquire the land. The city kept the lease intact for the Optimist Club and then began to help them realize their dream of a park and playground for the area. On April 4, the City of Hornbeck and the Hornbeck Optimist Club broke ground on the improvement project.

Approximately $117,000 will go towards walking trails and baseball field improvements. The Hornbeck Optimist Club will provide the playground fulfilling a dream of providing ongoing service to youth. Great job all!

UW-Wisconsin Optimist Club travels to Belize

Here is a project that puts the International in Optimist International. Eight college students from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Optimist Club traveled to Belize to take clothing, toys, personal hygiene products and other supplies to a local orphanage.

Check out the pictures and read about it the student newspaper Royal Purple.

What a great project for a college club to perform! High Five to the students and their sponsoring club, the Whitewater Community Optimist Club.

Optimist Club Oratorical Contest

Our Optimist Clubs do so many great things in their local communities, but one activity that binds us together is the Optimist Oratorical Contest. It has been around since 1928 making it the longest running program for Optimist International. The Optimist Oratorical Contest asks students under the age of 16 to speak on a predetermined subject and they have the opportunity to receive college scholarships for their efforts. The Optimist Oratorical Contest helps students develop poise and self confidence as they learn to effectively present what they think about and what is on their minds.

Here is a sample of what an Optimist Club Oratorical Contest looks like.

Optimist Club of Vancouver Oratorical Contest (3-28-09)

The Optimist Club of Vancouver, WA has been broadcasting club and zone contests for several years. High Five to the Vancouver Optimist Club. And congrats to the students for an awesome job!

High Five to Optimist Club Volunteers

There is such a focus for our clubs to perform an extraordinary project that we forget that the time we spend volunteering makes just as great an impact. Take a look at the great recognition given to the Sunrise Optimist Club of Casa Grande, Arizona by the Pinal County Fair organizers and the Casa Grande Newspapers.

According to the article, the Sunrise Optimist Club has been manning the gates to the fair since 1977 giving more than three hundred volunteer hours each year. When a volunteer group donates their time they create a spirit of community, and in this case Optimism, from the beginning plus that frees up time and money that can be spent on making the community activity that much more special.

Let's give a big High Five to the Sunrise Optimist Club of Casa Grande. Read all about the Optimist Club volunteers at the Pinal County Fair.

Optimist Club recognizes that best and brightest means more than grades!

The Hattiesburg Optimist Club in Hattiesburg, MS takes time each year to recognize fifth graders for being exemplary students. However, that doesn't mean they have to athletes or straight A students. According to Optimist Club member and activity coordinator Barbara Stanford, the recognition is for "Those good students who represent their school well."

The kids were introduced by their teachers or parents and they received a medal from the Optimist Club signifying their honor. Jalah Singleton, who plans to hang her medal on the wall in her bedroom, said she enjoys representing her school. "It really makes me feel like I'm really a good student," she said. "I'm proud of myself."

Read about these great children in the Hattiesburg American.

Optimist Club helps students be the best they can be

The St. Andrews Optimist Club in South Carolina brings the business community together with Irmo High School students for the All You Can Be Awards Program. This year 77 students were recognized for classroom participation, adherence to school rules, improved grades and all-around leadership.

The St. Andrews Optimist Club receives nominations from teachers for their All You Can Be program. According to club president Ken Lowden, it's one of the finest examples he's seen of how Optimists bring out the best in kids.

Read all about the program in the Faces of Optimism Newsletter.

How one Optimist helps students express themselves

Here is a really hands-on activity for one dedicated Optimist in Mission, BC. Rhett Nicholson is the advisor to the JOOI Club sponsored by the Mission Optimist Club. Rhett and eleven JOOI Club members work together to write, design, and publish the OPTIMIX magazine.

The download is large - sorry about that - but with a little patience, you can see not only what is on the minds of teens and tweens today; but you can also see how they process the information through the graphic design and printwork that goes into just eight pages of the twenty-four page magazine. BTW, they also sell the advertising so they can afford to print and distribute the magazine at no charge.

Great job Rhett! Great job Mission! ^5 JOOI students!

Optimist Club meets to help others eat

Are your members tired of meeting? Would they rather be doing something instead of talking about it?

The Optimist Club of Issaquah, Washington decided to act on that all too common complaint. They decided to devote one meeting every month to the act of doing something for the community. Instead of sitting, eating and meeting at a local restaurant, they meet at a food kitchen and serve dinner to others. What a great way to:

Make a difference
Be active in the community
Share an optimistic way of life with others

Optimist Club makes a difference in the Cayman Islands

Some Optimist Clubs perform huge projects in their communities and I promise I will eventually highlight some of them, but I have to tell you I like simple projects the best. A simple project allows the Optimist member to interact more closely with children and show them that we care about them. I found out about a true hands-on project being performed on Grand Cayman.

The headline that I found was "Optimist Club teaches life skills." I think you will agree that reading, writing and arithmetic are life skills. Click here to see how the members of this club are tutoring and mentoring children as part of their weekly meeting. They are also working with the schools to bring about the first Optimist Oratorical Contest.

The Optimist Club of Georgetown, Grand Cayman is a recent addition to the Optimist family with only six months of activities under their belt. What a great start to making a difference on their small island.

Optimist Clubs recognize children

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the gift of acknowledgement. We need to let them know that we appreciate them and the things that they do. Student athletes and scholars get a lot of praise. Kids who are disruptive or mischievious are called out for their behavior. But there are so many other students out there! Those that live their lives off the radar screen are just as important. They do some pretty remarkable things just because they are the right things to do.

Some Optimist Clubs have found a way to recognize those kids. In Jerome, Idaho they recognize kids for performing random acts of kindness. Click to read more.

In Bay City, Michigan, they recognize kids for being unsung heroes. Click here to read more.

Are there some kids in your community that deserve a shout out? Plan an event - it doesn't have to be elaborate, just meaningful. After you recognize the kids in your communty, please tell us about it here.

New direction for the Build an Optimist Club Today blog

This site was created to support new club building ideas and efforts. A great number of Optimist Club members believe, as do I, that new clubs are formed to perform community service and that local projects or causes drive the need for a new club.

In an effort to make more information available to all about great ideas, I'm going to begin highlighting some pretty fantastic club projects that I have heard about. Some of these projects will be unique to Optimist Clubs; some will be collaborative in nature; all will be inspirational. I hope that when you read them, you'll take just a few minutes to ask what else can I do to support my community? How can my Optimist Club help more children?

Check back occasionally to find out what is new!