Optimist Clubs should add members of all ages

I received a Google alert today about the Optimist Club of Knoxville. The alert mentioned my friends Buzz and Donna Buzzwell so I clicked quickly to see what they had accomplished. The link took me to a photo album with the history of their club. It was fun to see how this club has matured and added programs and members throughout its ninety years.

This picture especially caught my attention.  These six gentleman were honored in 1982 for achieving 25 years of perfect attendance.  What an accomplishment!

As I looked closely at the men standing proudly in front of their club banner, I thought they don't look all that different from many of our members today.

I find this significant because there is such a push by many clubs and Optimist International to find younger members. If you don't add youthful members they lament that we are destined to fade away.

I argue that we have always had this concern and somehow our club make-up continues to look the same. My advice: add young members. Add middle aged members. Add any members that share your desire to live an optimistic life and bring out the best in kids. We need members of all ages to serve our communities and purpose.

Thanks to the Optimist Club of Knoxville for allowing me to share their photo.