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Inspiration

"

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity.  An optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.

"

Sir Winston Churchill


About

There's an old saying: "If you think you can, you're right.  If you think you can't -- you're right again."  Optimism starts with a choice and when that choice becomes a pattern of behavior (in thought, feeling, and action) we have shaped a core attitude and outlook. Being an Optimist means sharing Optimism with youth, being a role model, and instilling the choice of Optimism: leading by example.

Optimism can be expressed as a set of promises we make with ourselves:

  • to be strong so that nothing can disturb your peace of mind
  • to talk about health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet
  • to make all your friends feel that there is something special in them
  • to look at the sunny side of everything and make optimism come true
  • to think only of the best, to work only for the best, and expect only the best
  • to be as enthusiastic about the success of others, as you are about your own success
  • to forget the mistakes of the past and press on to greater achievements
  • to wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile
  • to give so much time to the impovement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others
  • to be too large for worry, to noble for anger, too strong for frear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble

Optimists are people who commit to building a better future for the youth of our communtity through guidance, support and example.

Why be an Optimist?

Why should you join the Optimist Club of Byron?

  • help shape the future of our youth
  • be part of a club that can make a difference for your children, and those of friends, family, and neighbors.
  • make a difference in a child's life by being a positive role model
  • ensure youth programs continue to operate and are properly funded
  • discover new friends in your community with men and women of similar interests, values, and goals
  • develop your self, by working with others in a variety of programs and projects
  • sharpen your leadership skills
  • feel proud of your community, your club, and yourself
  • have some fun!

Primary Programs and Activities

OCB supports and operates four different sports programs throughout the year. These programs directly service 2,200 youth in our community, wiht approximately 1,600 boys and girls participating in soccer, 400 boys and girls playing baseball and softball, and nearly 200 boys and girls participating in challenge baseball and Track 3 skiing.

Other programs include:

  • Canada Day Celebration with fireworks
  • Citywide chess tournament
  • Junior Golf
  • Bike safety rodeo
  • Easter Egg Hunt
  • Programs for the physically and mentally challenged
  • Special Olympics

Financial assistance is also provided for Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, London Boys and Girls Club, Thames Valley Children's Center, Downs Syndromw Research Institute, Children's Safety Village, HOBY, extra curricular activities for local schools, and many other community programs.

What is an Optimist

An Optimist is a motivated member of the community who wishes to promote and assist with the physical and moral development of youth, as well as adopting an nurturing Optimism as a philosophy of life.

Our belief is that family and work commitments come first --- volunteering for Optimism should not detract from these priorities in one's daily life.  If you would like to become an Optimist, we simply ask that you get involved with at least one project or activity of your choice, to ensure best use of your apptitude and interest, while establishing rapport with other Optimists.

A social meeting is held once a month where you can meet your fellow Optimists, share information of relevant topics, and have fun!  Whether you are looking for an outlet to help shape the future of your community or seeking a venue for personal development, we invite you to join the Optimist Club of Byron today!