Because We Want to Help – 1st Quarter
During this time of isolation, it is hard for clubs that do service, to take any action. Schools are closed or not allowing visitors. Physical items cannot be donated to shelters because of the contamination. We, the members of the Paragon Optimist Club have been able to do some activities. We have not been able to do our usual fun activities, but hopefully as 2021 opens more, we can be back too normal.
Pat B
What a year it has been. New ways of life due to COVID, loss of friends and loved ones, keeping a positive outlook and pushing through adversity. With all this going on Paragon perseveres in continuing our support of those less fortunate. Thanks to member generosity and help from our shopping elves we provided Christmas for eight children. Fairfield Optimist and Paragon Optimist clubs handed gifts out together to families. Santa was there with his elf. Parents and kids loved it. Santa had each child pick a gift to open. Sheer delight on their faces ripping the paper and excited to see what Santa brought them. Masks couldn't hide the smiles and appreciation from parents and grandparents. Not only did we provide for the kids we helped families forget their hardships for a little while. We are an amazing club and I wish everyone a safe and healthy 2021.
Paula B
For several years we have assisted Trinity Lutheran Church in Mt. Healthy with their community outreach program "Feed Your Neighbor." Normally we purchase, cook and serve healthy hot meals to neighbors seated in the building, and then helped clean up. Since the money was donated by members at our meetings and all our meetings are now virtual thanks to COVID-19, we now purchase food paid for by the church. On January 28, we cooked, packaged and bagged it. Church members then distribute it safely to the waiting families. We still cleaned up whatever mess we made. We serve between 80-130 meals each time to community families. We've been told that our meals are some of the best they get. While they miss, sitting in a warm church with others and being served piping hot meals, they are still very appreciative of the service.
Trish C
In the next few months, we will be working on several activities. We are working with the local schools to have fourth graders write an essay for our annual 4th Grade Essay Contest where winners receive prizes. We are collecting, sorting and filling Easter baskets to be delivered to those in need. We are also busy collecting items for our Paragon Pals bags that are donated to the homeless. We are still having meeting on Zoom and trying doing service because that is how we roll!
Pat B