Bringing Optimism to Lincoln

Last Tuesday evening, April 9, a group of 18 Lincoln residents came together in the backroom at Lambkins to learn about Optimist International. Lincoln resident Shayne Lindsay, a long-time member of Optimist International in Great Falls, and Lambkin's Owner Marge Kolve organized the meeting after a recent conversation Lindsay had with a friend from the Great Falls chapter. The friend asked if Lindsay knew Kolve, who had been introduced to OI when they lived in Great Falls. Together, Lindsay and Kolve put their heads together and decided to have an informative meeting about Optimist International in Lincoln. OI is a service club dedicated to bringing out the best in the youth of the community. They have almost 3000 clubs in over 20 countries with more than 80,000 members. with clubs in Great Falls, Helena, Missoula, and Havre there are more than 250 members in the region. Lindsay said he started to think about the Optimist Club in Lincoln because to his knowledge there was no other active service clubs in town. In the time he has spent in Lincoln he has noticed a need and, with his experience with OI, he thought it could be beneficial.  OI Western Montana Lt. Gov. John Gregory and his wife, Mary, came from Great Falls to speak to the group. Gregory explained that the individual clubs look at the needs of the children of their town, as well as the surrounding communities. They do various fundraisers to be able to help with these needs, aiding groups that help children, as well as individuals. A second meeting is scheduled for Tuesday April 23 at 6:30 in the back room at Lambkins. All who are interested are encourage to attend and bring questions as well as ideas.