OUR MISSION:
By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids.
OUR VISION:
Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as the premier volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their full potential.
OUR PURPOSE:
To develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed; to promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs; to inspire respect for the law; to promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people; to aide and encourage the development of youth in the belief that the giving of ones self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life and the world.
OUR STORY:
The Bayfield Optimist Club was established in 1984 and since that time has been very active in supporting the children and youth of Bayfield and surrounding area. As with all new Optimist clubs, at the start we were sponsored by an existing club who wanted to assist in the formation of a new group of excited volunteers. For us, it was the Sarnia-Bluewater Club that came to Bayfield and worked closely with the founding members until they were able to operate independently. Since that time, our club has had twenty four Presidents, numerous members holding executive positions, and many, many faithful volunteers.
Ask anyone who has been a part of the village since our formation and they will no doubt have a memory of attending our events, seeing our projects come to life, and supporting the Optimists in one way or another.
We are always looking for opportunities to fulfill our purpose as stated above. Our members live and work in the community and are always open to hearing suggestions and new ideas that support our vision. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised and channelled back to the youth of the area. We are confident our club will continue to help strengthen the community for many years to come.
As you look through this website, please consider joining us at our next meeting to see if the Bayfield Optimist Club is a good fit for you. We're actively looking for new members and would look forward to meeting you.
Ask anyone who has been a part of the village since our formation and they will no doubt have a memory of attending our events, seeing our projects come to life, and supporting the Optimists in one way or another.
We are always looking for opportunities to fulfill our purpose as stated above. Our members live and work in the community and are always open to hearing suggestions and new ideas that support our vision. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised and channelled back to the youth of the area. We are confident our club will continue to help strengthen the community for many years to come.
As you look through this website, please consider joining us at our next meeting to see if the Bayfield Optimist Club is a good fit for you. We're actively looking for new members and would look forward to meeting you.
CURRENT MEMBERS
as of August 2020. listed alphabetically.
Bruce Brady - Kevin Burton - Mike Dixon - Nora Dowler - Cathy Fisher - Jay Fisher - Jane Gillman - Vic Gillman - Barbara Graham - Phil Graham - Donna Kish - Jeff Kish - Tara McGee - Joyce McIlwain - Wayne McKaig - John Pounder - Joan Schilbe - Glen Steinson
THE OPTIMIST CREED
- I’ll strive to be mentally strong so that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.
- I’ll speak of health, happiness and prosperity with everyone I meet.
- My goal will be to make all my friends feel that I cherish their friendship.
- I promise to look at the sunny side of life and make my optimism come true.
- My personal standards will be set high, thinking only of the best, working towards the best, and expecting only the best.
- I’ll be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.
- I’ll forget the mistakes of the past and press on to greater achievements in the future.
- I’ll wear a cheerful countenance at all times and smile at everyone I cross paths with.
- My time will be spent improving myself and I will abstain from criticizing others.
- I will encourage those I interact with to set their aspirations high and I will lead by example.
