Along with the blossoms and buds that are sprouting on our trees and flowers, there are other signs of growth. Our communities are hosting elections and asking citizens to participate in making informed decisions about their futures.
Optimist Clubs have also awakened from their winter hibernation and as they prepare for spring, they too are electing new officers that will lead them in the coming year and making plans for their newly elected volunteer leaders to attend the Optimist International Convention.
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| A sign of spring for Optimist Clubs. |
What I find so exciting about new leaders is their commitment to inviting new members to join their cause. That is why in Optimist Clubs around the world we often say that March is for Membership. During this time of year, Optimist Clubs host "NOW" (New Optimists Welcome) events and take to the streets with membership applications in hand. When prospective new members balk at committing to the time it takes to join an Optimist Club, there is a secret weapon that all hosts can use: invite them to support your club's efforts by being a Friend of Optimists. No time commitment needed, only the desire to see good things happen for the youth and the community.
Invitations work, friends; they really do. But you do have to make the effort to get your club's name and projects noticed. Realizing that Optimist Clubs need help gaining more visibility, this year, Optimist International has added an extra incentive for clubs to add members to their roster. All Optimist Clubs that add ten or more new members between March 1 and May 31, 2012 will receive a new road sign for their community.
No forms needed. Optimist International will track your growth and supply your new Optimist Club road sign to your Optimist Club upon completion.
Now that sounds like a plan for the rebirth of Optimism. I envision new road signs in bloom around the world. Help make my dream come true, won't you?
Photo credit: V31S70
