New Optimist Club launches in Goderich to support local youth

Members of the recently formed Optimist Club of Goderich (standing, L-R): Jarrett Robinson, Jasmyn Pritchard, Ivet Loder, Rhonda Hartleib, Frieda Michielsens, Lucas Dobson, Henry Dobson, Colin Carmichael, and David Harrison. (Seated, L-R): Tanya  MacIntyre, Candace Van Damme, Michelle Shepherd, and Arminta Carmichael.

A new service club is taking root in the community with the official chartering of the Optimist Club of Goderich on Tuesday, May 27.

The club launches with 16 charter members, whose ages range from 16 to over 70 years old.

The founding group includes longtime Goderich residents and newcomers alike, with a mix of past experience in the Optimist movement and others joining a service club for the first time.

While their paths to the club vary, members share a common motivation – a desire to support local youth.

“Optimist International is the only global service organization focused exclusively on young people,” said Ivet Loder, the newly elected President of the Goderich club.

“That mission is what brought each of us to the table – our concern for the well-being and future of youth in this community.”

Though Goderich has hosted Optimist Clubs in the past, it has been several decades since one was active in the town.

The return of the organization signals a renewed commitment to youth-focused service in the area.

What that service will look like is still taking shape. Over the coming months, members plan to assess local needs, identify gaps or opportunities, and determine how best the club can contribute – whether by supporting existing programs or launching new initiatives.

Fundraising efforts will also begin, with the goal of building resources to support youth projects and partnerships in Goderich.

“We’re here to listen first and act where we can make a meaningful difference,” said Jarrett Robinson, club vice president.

While the club’s regular meetings will take place on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Goderich Legion (downstairs), the first official meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 17 at the same time and location.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Optimist Club of Goderich, or exploring the possibility of getting involved, is invited to attend the June 17 meeting.

Inquiries can also be directed to goderichoptimists@gmail.com

The club’s charter officers are Ivet Loder, President, Jarrett Robinson, Vice President, Jasmyn Pritchard, Secretary, and Frieda Michielsens, Treasurer.

With the foundation now laid, the Optimist Club of Goderich hopes to become an active and visible contributor to youth development in the community.