1956
Lawrence Breakfast Optimists
The Breakfast Optimist Club of Lawrence, Kan., was chartered in 1956 by Optimist International. The purpose of Optimist International is to develop optimism as a philosophy of life; to promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs; to promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people; and to help develop in youth the belief that giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life and the world.
The Breakfast Optimists work with the youth of Lawrence in partnership with Lawrence Parks and Recreation for many youth programs and in partnership with the Lawrence Public Schools, for programs such as “Dictionaries For All Fourth Graders”. Optimists also support youth in schools by reading, tutoring and providing books and after-school programs, especially at East Heights and New York elementary schools and the Alternative High School. The club provides scholarships annually to graduates of Lawrence and Free State high schools. Other programs supported include baseball teams for boys and girls, the Boys and Girls Club, Aquahawks, Boy and Girl Scouts and Big Brothers Big Sisters. In 2003, the club hosted a group of Russian pharmacists for several weeks. Funds are raised through Christmas tree sales and Pancake Day.
Step Sponsored By: Past Governor Don Sheriff and his wife, Darlene Sheriff