But why talk about this today? I thought it was important to speak a bit about why service clubs first came to be on a day when our social welfare system has made the most dramatic change in recent history.
Service clubs became established in the early 1900s, largely by merchants, to meet humanitarian needs in their communities so that the government could focus on major infrastructure projects such as roads, water, and sewer systems. Service clubs focused on the social welfare of their communities.
Merchants who would otherwise be perceived as taking money from their communities found they were able to give back when they banded together as a service club. They developed programs for children identified as being delinquent and created opportunities for all children to develop character. By delivering programs to children, members also developed personal attributes that made them better citizens and better leaders in their homes, social circles, and professional careers. It was about engagement. It was about loyalty. It was about advancement.
Today, one hundred years later, service clubs compete with government run programs to make a difference. Service clubs compete with faith-based organizations to make a difference. Sadly, service clubs even compete with individuals - let's call them civic entrepreneurs - who use the model to advance their own agenda. And since the major funder of service clubs - local merchants - now compete with corporations in a global economy, their ability to donate to local programs has changed. Being a social welfare organization has presented challenges and restrictions that threatened the existence of service clubs.
Yesterday, the United States Congress passed a health care reform bill that signifies change in the system. Republicans and Democrats did not necessarily agree on what was passed. There will be many months and years of adjustment, negotiation and change. It may look chaotic. It will be challenging. Our social welfare system may appear to be in turmoil.
What will not change; however, is the need for children in the United States and around the world to receive care, guidance and attention. What will not change is the need in our communities for civic leaders to step up, be involved, and give to others with needs different or greater then their own. What will not change is the need for like-minded individuals to gather to find ways to meet needs in their communities that are overlooked, underfunded and unforeseen.
Now is the time for service clubs to reemerge as the leaders of the communities that they once were. Now is the time to engage with others. Optimist Clubs, this is your challenge. This could be your time to shine. Draw on your background, your heritage, to provide stability, encourage good government, and foster a positive way of life. Do your name proud and help increase Optimism in your community, country and world.
