The longevity of service clubs

One of the endearing features of the Optimist International Convention is the opportunity to see, meet, and talk to others who share the passion for being a "Friend of Youth." This is something that one really feels when they attend the "Old Timers Breakfast." This year, as most every year, the individual who had attended the most conventions was Hugh Cranford with, I believe, 60 to his credit.

Hugh Cranford, left, and members of the
Charlotte Optimist Club

The "old-timers" joke with one another about being the last one standing, but it is no joke that our Optimist Clubs, like all service clubs appear to be graying.

The graying of service clubs has been lamented for many years. It's a cry I heard more than twenty years ago when I attended my first Optimist International Convention. I remember looking at the assembly and thinking that I was a minority, both in gender and age. Twenty years later, that is not true. Today, there are still people who are older than me and people who are younger than me, but those in my age group are still in the majority. It's me and my peers who are aging; not the organization.

Graying of service clubs?  I think not. However, continuing maturation of long-involved individuals is inevitable, fulfilling, and proof of life for all. The longevity of service clubs hinges on the the ability of our clubs to remain relevant throughout our lives.

Photo credit: The Charlotte Optimist Club