What We Do
What is an Optimist? Well, simply put, optimists rescue pessimists. Optimism enhances our health, the health of our communities, and the well-being of all. Through community service projects, optimists work to bring out the best in youth, in themselves, and in their communities. They are organized into “clubs” that have gatherings. They make plans to meet the needs of their community. Each club is autonomous and is run by its own members. They have the flexibility to serve the youth in their area. Optimists see a need and react to it!
The Brighton Optimist Club works to bring out the best in youth, in themselves, and in our community. All projects are focused on the community's youth.
The Brighton Optimist Club works to bring out the best in youth, in themselves, and in our community. All projects are focused on the community's youth.
Our History
The Brighton Optimist Club was officially chartered on September 15, 1977, with 27 members.
It was sponsored by the Ann Arbor Breakfast Club and became the 107th Michigan District Club. The first officers were: President Dave Jacobs, Vice-Presidents Chris Wendrick and Dick Gogoleski, Secretary Dick Albrecht, and Treasurer Mike Bonk.
It was sponsored by the Ann Arbor Breakfast Club and became the 107th Michigan District Club. The first officers were: President Dave Jacobs, Vice-Presidents Chris Wendrick and Dick Gogoleski, Secretary Dick Albrecht, and Treasurer Mike Bonk.
Who We Are
The Brighton Optimist Club's members are mothers, fathers, young people, and older adults, and we share a common commitment: we care deeply about our community and its youth.
Members typically live and/or work in our community, coming together to serve others and to promote optimism as a way of life. Since each club is an autonomous Charter Club of Optimist International, run by members in their community, Optimists have the unique flexibility to serve the youth of their area in any way they see fit. Our service activities are tailored to meet our community's needs, and what our Club achieves depends solely on our members' creativity and resources.
For over four decades, the Brighton Optimist Club has positively impacted thousands of children in Livingston County through various programs. Our members are just like you — men and women from all walks of life who share a common goal: caring for our community and its youth.
Members typically live and/or work in our community, coming together to serve others and to promote optimism as a way of life. Since each club is an autonomous Charter Club of Optimist International, run by members in their community, Optimists have the unique flexibility to serve the youth of their area in any way they see fit. Our service activities are tailored to meet our community's needs, and what our Club achieves depends solely on our members' creativity and resources.
For over four decades, the Brighton Optimist Club has positively impacted thousands of children in Livingston County through various programs. Our members are just like you — men and women from all walks of life who share a common goal: caring for our community and its youth.
What to Expect
Wherever you are, should you wish to attend an Optimist Club’s meeting, specific components will remain the same. The programs and guest speakers offer Members an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. These meetings help to reinforce our commitment and allow us to take pride in our accomplishments. The Brighton Optimist Club meets on Thursday mornings at 7:30am at The Breakfast Club in Brighton.
Euchre Nights are held 2x a month at Brewery Becker in Brighton, and we usually have one social gathering per month, usually in the evening.
Euchre Nights are held 2x a month at Brewery Becker in Brighton, and we usually have one social gathering per month, usually in the evening.
- To develop Optimism as a philosophy of life, utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed.
- To aid and encourage the development of youth in the belief that the giving of oneself in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life, and the world.
- To promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs.
- To inspire respect for law.
- To promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people
Officers 2025-26
Christina Kafkakis
President
Diane Dennis
Secretary
Allen Walblay
Treasurer