Embark on an exciting journey aboard the S.S. Optimism!
This 365-day (metaphorical) cruise, captained by President Jan, promises a year of fun, growth and rewards. As we “travel” to various ports, all Clubs will have the chance to win big – every new member a Club gains will earn them an entry into a quarterly drawing for a $250 prize! Finally, we'll disembark in St. Louis for the 2025 International Convention, where even more prizes await! So, climb aboard and let's chart a course toward a fantastic year of growth!
CLICK HERE for terms and conditions and to opt-in to the “cruise.”
MISSION STATEMENT
By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
VISION STATEMENT
Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as the first volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their full potential.
VALUES STATEMENT
Optimism
Optimism is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a shared sense of hope and resilience. We encourage positive action within ourselves and our communities and persist through difficulties with the belief we can create meaningful change, ensuring that we and those we serve can reach our fullest potential.
Respect
Through respectful interactions we value the unique contributions and inherent worth of every individual. We honor all people with dignity, compassion and care by embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, ethics and transparency in everything we do. We are accountable for our actions and follow through on our commitments. We conduct ourselves in all actions by doing what is right, even when it is difficult. We set a positive example and inspire others to follow.
Global Community
We embrace diversity, interconnectedness and shared humanity across all cultures, beliefs and borders. Our commitment to the global community encourages us to think beyond local solutions and consider the broader impact of our actions. By nurturing a spirit of cooperation and empathy, we work towards a better world together.
PURPOSES OF OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL
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 agreement and friendship among all people; to aid and encourage the development of youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life, and the world.
THE OPTIMIST CREED
Promise Yourself-
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
Optimist
Managing Editor Cheryl Brenn
Editor J. Ryne Danielson
Designer Jason Cook Editorial Office 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108
Office (314) 371-6000 Fax (314) 371-6006
Email magazine@optimist.org
Generous support from the Optimist International Foundation made this publication possible.
Optimist (ISSN 1085-5017) (CPN 40032242) (USPS 808-320) is published quarterly in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer by Optimist International, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108, a non-profit and incorporated association of Optimist Clubs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Periodicals posted at St. Louis, MO, and at additional mailing offices. Digital periodicals posted online at Optimist.org.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to The Optimist, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.
My family's unwavering stance against the Nazi regime and their profound empathy for all individuals have been instrumental in shaping my identity.” “
Jan Oord Graves: Leading with Optimism
Jan Oord Graves, the incoming President of Optimist International, exudes an optimism that seems almost contagious. It's an optimism rooted in a remarkable family history and a lifelong dedication to service. As she prepares to lead this global organization, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of hope and optimism.
by J. Ryne Danielson Communications Manager
A Legacy of Courage
Jan's parents' experiences during World War II were nothing short of extraordinary. Living in a small Dutch town near the German border, they witnessed the horrors of Nazi occupation firsthand. Her father, a member of the Dutch resistance, risked his life to fight for freedom and protect his community. Many of his comrades were captured and executed, a stark reminder of the dangers they faced.
"My family's unwavering stance against the Nazi regime and their profound empathy for all individuals have been instrumental in shaping my identity," Jan said. "My parents' courage and resilience during the war instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of optimism. They taught me the significance of compassion and that every person deserves our care and support. They faced unimaginable challenges, yet they never lost hope.”
Her parents’ belief in the possibility of a better future is something she carries with her to this day. Jan believes that her parents' optimistic outlook was essential to their survival and their ability to rebuild their lives after the war.
"You can't be a pessimist and join a resistance movement," she said. "It takes an inherent belief in the possibility of change to stand up against oppression and fight for a better world."
Jan's parents John and Dena Oord
From Educator to Optimist Leader
“Joining the Optimist Club was one of the best decisions I've ever made.”
Jan's career in education, particularly her work with atrisk youth, further shaped her optimistic worldview. Her experiences as a teacher and principal at a juvenile detention center fueled her passion for empowering young people to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
She witnessed firsthand the power of positivity and the necessity of hope in changing young lives.
"Working with these kids taught me that everyone has the potential for greatness, no matter their circumstances," Jan said. "It's our job as Optimists to help them unlock that potential and make them believe in themselves."
Introduction to Optimism
Jan's introduction to Optimism was serendipitous. She learned of Optimist International unexpectedly when her supervisor encouraged her to join a service
organization. After discovering the Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo, she was immediately drawn to the club's positive atmosphere, sense of camaraderie, and focus on youth empowerment.
"Joining the Optimist Club was one of the best decisions I've ever made," Jan said. "It provided me with opportunities to grow as a leader, connect with my community, and make a real difference in the lives of young people."
But the impact of Optimism extended past the professional to encompass her personal life as well.
Jan met her husband, Ron Graves, through her local Optimist Club, and their 12-year marriage has enriched her life in countless ways.
“As a huge side benefit, I was welcomed to the family by Ron’s daughter and grandchildren, and I am now GranJan to three beautiful great grands,” she said.
The Oord family pose for a photo at their family farm in the Netherlands.
Top: Jan and her father on the Oord’s first dairy farm in Artesia, California, 1959.
Bottom: Jan and her husband, Ron, dressed in Dutch costume at an Optimist Halloween event.
Leading with Purpose
Jan's unwavering commitment to Optimism's mission and her exceptional leadership qualities quickly propelled her through the ranks of the organization. From serving as club president to becoming the Governor of the Michigan District, she embraced every opportunity to inspire and motivate fellow Optimists.
"The unwavering support and encouragement I received from my fellow Optimists played a crucial role in my growth as a leader," Jan said. "Their belief in me fueled my passion for serving others and instilled in me the confidence to pursue even greater endeavors."
Now, as President, Jan is committed to strengthening Optimist International's brand and ensuring that the word "optimist" is synonymous with the organization's mission of hope and positivity.
She emphasizes a return to the organization's core purpose and champions a focus on our "why" — the profound principles of hope, positive vision, and optimism that underpin the Optimist mission.
"We need to reclaim our identity and ensure that when people hear the word 'optimist,' they think of our organization first and foremost," Jan said. "It's about more than just service projects; it's about fostering a mindset of hope and empowering everyone to believe in themselves. By showcasing the transformative power of optimism as a philosophy of life, we can inspire others to join our movement."
Photos Clockwise from top: Jan rides a bicycle during a visit to the Netherlands in the summer of 2023.
The Oord family poses for a photo on a Dutch windmill during a visit to the Netherlands in 2023.
Jan has tea with her husband’s daughters, granddaughters and great granddaughter.
Jan and Ron pose with their great grandson, Owen.
Optimist International President Jan Oord Graves October Video Address
A Vision for the Future
Jan's vision for Optimist International's future is rooted in adaptability and inclusivity. She recognizes the need to embrace new approaches to membership and engagement, ensuring that the organization remains relevant and accessible to all.
"The world is changing rapidly, and we need to change with it," Jan said. "By exploring innovative models of membership and fostering an inclusive environment, we can attract a diverse range of individuals who share our values and our passion for empowering youth and building stronger communities."
A Call to Action
Jan's message to fellow Optimists is clear: We all have a role to play in shaping the future of Optimist International. By embracing our shared responsibility and working collaboratively, we can ensure the organization's continued growth and impact for years to come.
"Optimist International belongs to all of us," Jan said. "It is our collective responsibility to spread optimism throughout the world, empower youth, and create a brighter future for the generation. Together, we can achieve extraordinary things."
Letter from the Editor
A Beacon of Optimism
In this issue of Optimist, we are proud to shine a spotlight on Jan Oord Graves, our new president. Her journey, as detailed in the accompanying article, is a testament to the power of optimism to transform lives and inspire action.
Jan's story reminds us that optimism is not merely a passive mindset but a driving force for positive change. From her parents' courageous stand against oppression during World War II to her own unwavering dedication to empowering youth, Jan embodies the Optimist spirit in all that she does.
Her vision for Optimist International is clear: to reclaim the narrative around optimism, reignite the passion for our mission, and ensure that our organization remains a beacon of hope for people around the world.
As we embark on this new chapter with Jan at the helm, let us all renew our commitment to the values of Optimism and work together to bring out the best in our youth, our communities, and ourselves.
Cheryl Brenn Executive Director
Calendar
A look at what’s coming up for Optimist International
OCTOBER
• Optimist New Year
• Q1 Oct/Nov/Dec
• President’s Message
NOVEMBER
• Optimist Junior Golf: Tournament of Champions
• World Kindness Week and Day
• Giving Tuesday
• Leadership Development Webinar
• Optimist International Board of Director’s Meeting
