Past and Present Community Efforts
As part of our commitment to support area youth the club has been involved in many area projects. We are always looking for new members who have a desire to serve youth-related projects and the community at large. Please stop by our Thursday morning breakfast meeting at the L'll Chef Restaurant, on Grand River Ave. at Challis Rd., in Brighton (near exit 145 off I-96). We start at 7:30 am, and your breakfast is free on your first visit.
Completed Projects include:
Skateboard Park - Now the Meijer Recreation Center, under direction of the South East Livingston Community Recreation Authority (SELCRA). The club worked for three years with active fundraising to support this project. In the mean time the Brighton Optimists built the PortaBOSS, a temporary facility that was placed in Brighton High's parking lot for two summers, and we continue to support programs like Skate School which takes place in the park.
Imagination Station - Two members of the club had the idea to organize the effort to build a landmark at the Brighton Mill Pond. They formed a large committee, gathered community support, and proceeded to build what is now know as Imagination Station. Over a 5 day period, with help of 1500 volunteers, including 25 Optimist members, some in leadership roles, the project was completed.
Back Door Drop-In Center - One of the clubs first initiatives, over 25 years ago, was to provide a safe haven for kids having trouble in school and with life. It laid the foundation for Phoenix HS, now know as Renaissance Alternative High School. On our 25th anniversary in September 2003, the Brighton Optimist Club pledge an additional $10,000 in scholarship money for graduating students.
Childhood Cancer - As part of Optimist International's Childhood Cancer Campaign (CCC), the Brighton Optimist Club raised and donated $2,500 to the School Re-Entry Program, part of University of Michigan Hospitals' Comprehensive Cancer Program. The money assists children with academic concerns and helps smooth their return to school after diagnosis and treatment. This program relies entirely on donations and has no institutional funding.
Other contributions
Brighton Optimists have also contributed to in the past or continue to contribute to the following:
Halloween Party at the Brighton Fire Station
Adopt-A-Family
The Connection Youth Center, Howell
Junior Achievement
Brighton High's Senior All Night Party
Brighton High School Honors Banquet
Brighton High School Band Boosters
Brighton High School JV POM Squad
D.A.R.E.
Brownies Troop 543 Sponsor
Cub Scout Troop 385 Sponsor
Livingston County Jumping' All stars - Jump rope team
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
Gleaners Food Bank
W. J. Massey Boy's Training School revival & Christmas Party
Close Up Government High School Program
Michigan District - Zone 10