January 11 Meeting with Sports Central

Our last meeting at the Szechuan Castle on Monday January 11 was a tremendous success with 41 members and guests attending. Guests included Allora, invited by Optimist Marvin,  Johanna, invited by Optimist Leona, Linda Wright, invited by Daniel High and Ken, invited by Optimist Jeff.

President Brian announced the induction of one new member: Shirley . Optimist Keivin read the induction, President Brian presented her with an Optimist International Welcome Kit, Optimist Brenda presented her  with a New Member Pin.

This was a program meeting, guest speakers from Sport Central: Matt, Board Member and Kristi Executive Assistant. The topic of their presentation was "Equipment for kids in need since 1991", they provided the audience with a handout of their presentation. They spoke about their mission, which is to provide children in need, in the Edmonton area, ages 3-17 with over 13 types of sports equipment -at no cost- so that they can participate in the sport of their choice. They opened their presentation with a big thank you to our club for donating more than 100 helmets in 2015. Their operation is volunteer-based, with only 8 staff and about 145 volunteers. They are constantly canvassing for volunteers, and offered the audience a variety of volunteer opportunities for anyone interested and able to help with: Equipment sorting, equipment repair, driving, outfitting, administration, special events and fundraising. Other volunteer activities can be found on their website. Sport Central has been in operation for almost 25 years, during that time they have outfitted over 125,000 children.

Reports were given on zone bowl, club jackets, football parking appreciation on January 22 and

project summary, membership committee NOW event for March 14, Club Appreciation on January

22, Essay Contest, Youth Appreciation April 25.  Each meeting members contribute a small amount

towards the Optimist foundation. Once the amount collected reaches $500 a draw is made. Optimist

John Anderson pulled nickel number 322, and announced that Optimist Daniel High was the winner. Daniel will receive a tax receipt for this amount as well as a foundation print. This meeting was adjourned with the Optimist Creed.