Optimist International in one page

Welcoming new members into our Optimist Clubs is always a pleasure. It's your responsibility to help your new friends learn about the culture of your club. Every club is just a little different. Although we are united in the Optimist Creed, there are "just had to be there moments" that must be explained so that your new arrivals don't feel left out.

It is also wise to talk about the history of the Optimist International organization. It is both comforting and invigorating to know that our local communities are connected to something bigger and united in a similar mission with others around the world.

To help you through the backstory, we're happy to provide an overview of Optimist International and the district and zone structure, milestones, and branding. Use it as a beginning to the orientation that you provide your new Optimist Club members.

Keep your new Optimist Club members around by letting them know more about what we are all about. Happy recruiting!

Click here to download and print the 1-page Optimist Club Orientation created by the Eagle Optimist Club.

The challenge is on!

Which region will welcome the most members and guests to the second quarter district gathering?  According to Governor-elect Larry Blackburn it will be the Idaho Region for he is looking to have, to borrow a phrase from the Twin Falls host club, "More fun with 101!"


There are three choices: 

February 11, 2012
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
As of January 9, the location has changed.
The Shilo Inn and Suites
1786 Blue Lakes Blvd.
Twin Falls, 83301
(208) 737-6280 Attn: Darlene
Registration: $35 You can print and mail registration or complete the form below.
Come in on Friday and spend the night for only $65 plus tax.

On Saturday, travel to Jackpot with Governor-elect Larry and Flo. Rooms @ Cactus Pete's $89 or Horseshu $59; for reservations call 800-801-8258 ext 6722. 

February 25, 2012 

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Keizer Renaissance Inn

5188 Wittenberg Lane North

Keizer, Oregon

503.390.4733

Registration $35

Overnight guests: $82 plus tax for 1-king bed; $86 plus tax for 2-queen

March 3, 2012 

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Inn at Port Gardner

1700 West Marine View Drive

Everett, Washington 98201

425.252.6779

Registration $35

Overnight guests: $96 plus tax for marina rooms with 1-king bed

Please register today at the region nearest your home and if you care to travel to visit some of your Optimist friends, register for two or more. We'll see you soon! 

Optimists fight human trafficking

Click to enlarge and print.

Human trafficking is slavery. We may think of it as something that happens to individuals in poor nations, but the truth is, it can happen to individuals anywhere, of any ethnicity, age, and socio-economic status. Prompted by Hollywood, our minds immediately think of the underground world of prostitution rings and drug cartels; but sadly, it is possible that persons who employ domestic workers or companies who exploit illegal workers may also be engaged by extension in human trafficking pursuits.

Individuals who are enslaved by human traffickers lose their independence and are forced to share their hard-earned money with their abuser. They also lose their health.

I'm sorry to place such a deep and dark subject on a website devoted to optimism. However, raising awareness for causes that will protect our children is a function of an Optimist Club and that is why the N. Kitsap Optimist Club, in conjunction with Break Free Kitsap and others, is conducting a week-long  series of events to increase awareness of this horrible crime.


For their active part in the series, the N. Kitsap Optimists will present the Optimist International Internet Safety Program for adults and share copies of The Optimist Creed. Other activities include "Somebody's Daughter," a presentation from Seattle Police Detective Henry James, an overview of the extent of the problem, a  presentation on Safe Secure and a call to action. 


Adele Heinrich invites all PNW Optimists to participate, especially those who live in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Shawna Seals with The Poulsbo Inn will offer a reduced rate for Optimist volunteers to stay overnight. Call (360) 779-3921 and ask for Shawna directly.


Good luck, Adele and the Kitsap Optimists, on this ambitious program. 
I look forward to hearing more. 

Eagle Optimists wrap up successful Coats for Kids campaign

Myrna Harris and Mike Harris of the Eagle
Optimist Club deliver coats to refugees in Idaho

The Eagle Optimist Club held a very successful Coats for Kids drive in 2011 with a major beneficiary being the St. Alphonsus Family C.A.R.E Maternal/Child Health Clinic. The clinic provides care to area refugees who have relocated to the Boise community from many different countries. 


Read more at Refugees Discover Warmth of Eagle Optimist Club.