A lot of the projects are fundraising efforts like the Wine and Cheese Gala held in April by the Optimist Club of Vacaville, California. It was a lovely evening with a silent auction, raffle, and entertainment.
The club recently got together to distribute the proceeds of the evening to the beneficiary - SOCK - Supporting Our Cancer Kids.
Optimist International's efforts are known as the Childhood Cancer Campaign. The international program began as a fundraising effort a little over 7 years ago to perform research at Johns Hopkins Research Hospital and endow a fellowship at the university so studies can continue.
Many clubs wanted to do more at home and now it's not unusual to see clubs making pillowcases and blankets for cancer kids, hosting picnics and play days for children with cancer and their families or providing support for travel and sometimes living expenses for families going through treatment with their children.
I think this picture from SOCK displays the spirit of all Optimist Club members who make sure that children have the opportunity to smile even during this most awful time in their young lives. Yes, that spirit is optimism.
Thanks to the Vacaville Optimist Club for sharing their positive story.
