Life, sunny side up
Local Optimist Club proposed
By CHERYL ODDEN
Garrison residents, Keith and Jean Witt, would like to see an Optimist Club established in Garrison.
The Witts, formerly of Bismarck, had been members of the Bismarck Optimist Club, one of several in the capitol city. Jean is a former Bismarck Optimist Club president.
As active members, they said they’ve seen the benefits of Optimist service clubs firsthand. They said Optimist International organizations are committed to young people. That commitment is reflected in the Optimist mission – “By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids.”
Providing ideas on how this is accomplished, the couple said the Bismarck clubs provide financial aid for kids to attend camp. They sponsor youth basketball tournaments, purchase sports equipment and purchase team T-shirts and jerseys. They also give financial assistance for kids involved in music. The Bismarck clubs provide nutritional support for youth and their families through a backpack program. In instances where family cupboards are relatively bare, the backpack program provides non-perishable food items that children can take home in their backpacks. The goal is to provide better nutrition throughout the weekend.
