One Week to I AM AN OPTIMIST DAY 2013

CARIBBEAN Optimists are getting ready to mark the third staging of I AM AN OPTIMIST DAY on Wednesday, March 27, 2013. Now that the date is drawing near the question is coming at rapid: How will we represent?

The reason behind the special designation in the first instance was to create a platform for publicity – just getting people to know who we are as Optimists! The day allows all of us individually to make a public declaration that I AM AN OPTIMIST. With all of us doing so at the same time and in similar fashion on whatever platform we choose, together the impact would be, WE ARE OPTIMISTS thus placing Optimism front of mind for those who no doubt will notice; because OPTIMISM would be everywhere! So this year I say, don’t just say it loud, say it proud!  I AM AN OPTIMIST!

There are so many creative ways we can represent - as individual Optimists, in our clubs, in small groups, as zones, as a District. Whatever we do the message of Optimism is worth sharing with the world so let us do it filled with nothing but pride. After all, Optimist International Caribbean District is serving the interests of the region's future by bringing out the best in kids today!

I like the proposed activity being planned by my ever spirited friend, Chairperson Fay Mallitt (Optimist Club of Barbican Pines). An Optimist tent will be erected at Tropical Plaza from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 27 where as many Optimists as possible will gather to give out pamphlets and spread Optimism.  She is asking that you take water and wear your Optimist Shirts. This is such a great way to tell the world why Optimist International is the best voluntary service organization in which to serve our children and how they can become a volunteer so do join that group if you can.

And then, my very good friend, President Shalana Waterman (Optimist Club of Bridgetown, Barbados) who was with me every step of the way when we introduced the initiative in 2011 is reminding us of some all-media things we could do to mark the day. President Shalana's Five easy steps to I AM AN OPTIMIST DAY 2013.

1. Accept invite for I AM AN OPTIMIST DAY on Facebook. How about make every Optimist on Facebook your friend in the virtual world as well. Whatever new media platforms you are on invite other Optimists to share with you.

2. Engage your local newspaper and other media houses to carry a feature on Optimism.

How about Interviews on TV and radio, releases in the papers all focused on Optimism. I know we can do it!

3. Feature fellow Optimists in your work place newsletters or company advertisements. I still remember the Gleaner advert on March 31, 2011 placed by Supreme Ventures Ltd with the members of the Sunset Optimist Club of Kingston.

4. Change your BBM, WhatsApp and Facebook pictures to the Caribbean District logo. This we can all do on the stroke of mid-night for example or on the hour through out out the day. Our District theme is such a powerful theme and speaks to what we do best - Making a difference one child at a time!You could also write on your wall a simple statement saying why you are an Optimist. I am an Optimist because…

5. Wear the Optimist paraphernalia on March 27.  Bring out those pins folks... what of the T-shirts, polo-shirts, Just Ask buttons, the vests, caps, bumper stickers!. How about flying an Optimist flag or printing an OI logo and post on your office door for the day?!

Let us know how you intend to make people know how PROUD you are TO BE AN OPTIMIST on the Caribbean District’s I AM ON OPTIMIST DAY Wednesday March 27, 2013!