Message from Governor RAy Cockrell 2024-2025
Happy New Year!!
I know – it is not January yet. Yet the same excitement, joy and anticipation for a new Optimist year still exists!
When we celebrate the traditional ringing in of the new year, we reflect on the past year and set new goals for making ourselves and our lives better in the coming year. We get the opportunity to do just that in our new Optimist year as well. I suggest that we not forget the past and still press on to the greater achievements of the future. Governor Terry did a fantastic job last year – let’s not forget his accomplishments. And let’s set new goals for bringing out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
We have talked over the last couple of years about being stronger together. We are able to do more, impact more and serve more together than we can individually. This is YOUR Optimist District and we need YOU to be a part of making it stronger. There will be opportunities to do just that throughout the year.
First – we need your feedback. In the last Bulletin, I let you know I would be coming to you for feedback on these areas:
• Are you happy where we are as a District? If not, please let me know how we can make immediate upgrades to our efforts.
• What programs or speakers would be useful to you?
• What training would help make you a stronger Optimist and a stronger leader?
• What opportunities for fellowship sound exciting to you?
• Give me ONE idea that you think will help grow the district, add members or improve attendance at District Meetings
So now I am asking! Let me hear from you. Give me input and information.
Second – I will have copies of a needs assessment at our District Meeting for you to take back to your clubs. These are completely anonymous but will give us valuable insights as to where our members see needs that can be addressed.
Finally – In my professional life, my team works on the philosophy that everything is personal. I can’t serve from afar. I can only see you, understand you and hear you if I am with you. Invite me to your club’s gatherings, events, fundraisers and activities. I want to be there! Let me hear from you.
Our organization faces challenges – but TOGETHER, if we have HOPE and BELIEVE – then we can make a difference. WE ARE OPTIMISTS!!
OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT
Janet D 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.
From Educator to Optimist Leader
Jan’s career in education, particularly her work with at risk 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 youngpeople.” 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 hasenriched 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.
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.”