To my colleague Optimist members,
I am proud to be serving as President of the Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation (CCOF) in 2022-2023. I have served on the Foundation’s board of directors since 2019 and my commitment to the organization continues to grow!
The theme I have chosen 2022-2023 is ‘Stronger Together’! Don’t we say that the whole is stronger than the sum of its parts!
The well-known African proverb states «It takes a village to raise a child». It underscores the importance of an entire community to provide for, and interact positively with, children and youth so that they live and grow in a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment. This proverb resonates loud and clear with Optimists in Canada and around the world! In the communities served by an Optimist Club, young people are offered a wide range of activities and programs that empower them and allow them to develop to their full potential. Over the past few years, I have seen the benefits of a wide range of community projects that have come to fruition through the Foundation’s programs. It is also heartwarming to receive messages of thanks from young people who can pursue post-secondary studies thanks to the scholarships we have awarded them!
Optimist International and Optimist Clubs are fortunate to be supported by their Foundations, both American and Canadian! While there are many challenges our communities will never control, it’s helpful and healthy to focus on what we can control – our commitment to supporting what matters most, today’s youth.
My goal this year is to increase awareness of the Foundation amongst clubs, members, and our communities in Canada. With your help, we can increase the impact we have on youth in our communities! We will be stronger together!
Ann Richer-Doyle
2022-2023 President,
Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation