To have belief in the essential goodness of the universe is Optimism, and Clarkston students are shouting theirs loud and proud.
The Clarkston area Optimist Clubs soul purpose is to develop optimism as a philosophy of life, have respect for the law to promote patriotism, and to build friendships among all people. Students involved develop these paramount skills, bringing out the best in the kids and form wonderful adults.
Optimist Clubs carry out many projects such as, working closely with schools to enhance education, prevention programs, coaching youth sports, reading to children, assisting disaster victims and tutoring and mentoring.
Pine Knob Elementary, Andersonville Elementary and Clarkston Elementary all support Junior Optimist Clubs and participate in the Alpha Club.
‘My favorite part about our club is the process the students go through,? said DreeAnne Chartier, Adult Optomist Advisor of the Andersonville Elementary Alpha Club. ‘To watch the kids start out having individual mindsets to blossoming to thinking like a team.?
Four years ago, Pine Knob Elementary started its first Optimist Club, and it is called the Alpha Club. The group is still going strong today. Though this is the fourth year at PKE, it is the first year the sponsor, Kym Parks, elected officers.
‘The idea is to help them develop leadership skills to carry through as they grow older and have certain responsibilities,? said Parks. ‘I really feel that the members of the club have chosen well, and I look forward to seeing what they can do for the club this year.?
Students elected include’President Katie Hokanson, Vice President Brienne Peers, Treasurer Tyler Hancsak, and Co- Treasurer Krista Deo. Members of the club are involved in many different activities, each with its own valuable intention. Currently, the students are collecting canned goods to distribute at Lighthouse North for Thanksgiving.
Also, the students work together to make bird feeders, because each individual is sensitive to human needs as well as animal needs. Christmas is just around the corner, and once again, the PKE Optimist Club will participate in the annual Christmas parade in downtown Clarkston.
This club definitely has its plate full. Actively, these students participate after school to make all their responsibilities and commitments possible. Once complete, the club hopes to invite guest speakers, and include themselves in other activities as well.
‘I am confident that this will be another rewarding and successful club year,? said Parks.