HOLSTEIN – July 1 marked a big day for the Egremont Optimists Club.
Not only did the group host its annual Summer Dreams Car Show and Canada Day Fireworks display, it also fulfilled its pledge to the Louise Marshall Hospital’s redevelopment and expansion project.
In December of 2013, the Egremont Optimists Club committed to raising $50,000 towards the hospital’s renovation, and through numerous fundraising efforts, was well on its way to meeting this goal when the COVID pandemic struck.
Like many charities and service organizations, the club was forced to pivot and come up with new and innovative ways to meet fundraising goals.
It took them nearly 10 years, but the Optimists, including current co-presidents Rayburn Love, Mike Wideman and Tony Moore, were able to present a cheque for $5,000, the final installment of their pledge, to Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation’s development officer, Amy Van Huss.
“We are so pleased to be here today to celebrate what the Optimists have achieved. Their support will go a long way towards equipping the newly expanded space at the hospital with the equipment staff need to provide excellent care,” said Van Huss.
A small club, committed to directing funds raised back into the community for projects and programming that support youth, the Egremont Optimists have hosted numerous events and fundraisers over the years in support of this mission.
While it is best known for its bigger annual events, like Holstein Maplefest and the July car show and fireworks display, the club has also hosted other fundraisers; numerous Robbie Burns nights, and the 2019 theatre production of Calendar Girls.
Partial proceeds from these events have been directed towards Louise Marshall Hospital in fulfilment of their pledge, but the Optimists have also hosted Halloween parties for local youth, provided funding for children to attend the Saugeen Valley Safety Village, and in the winter months, have provided ongoing maintenance for the ice rink in Holstein for kids of all ages to enjoy. Club members are especially proud of their ongoing partnershipwith the Egremont Community School, having just recently hosted the school’s production of Finding Nemo Jr.
Said Van Huss, “On behalf of all of us at the Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation, we would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Egremont Optimists Club.
“Our local community service groups are an invaluable support for the hospital, and we are so grateful for their continued partnership.”
