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Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimists Wish Everyone a Joyful and Safe 4th of July
[July 4, 2025]
As fireworks light up the skies and families gather for picnics, barbecues, and patriotic celebrations, the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club extends warm wishes to the entire community for a happy and safe Independence Day.
Each year, July 4th serves as a powerful reminder of the freedoms we enjoy and the values that unite us as Americans. The Optimist Club, dedicated to promoting optimism, youth development, and community service, embraces this national holiday as an opportunity to reflect on unity, resilience, and civic pride. We want to wish everyone a joyful and safe 4th of July. It’s a time to celebrate the freedoms we hold dear, and also to look out for one another — especially our youth and families.
Founded on the principle of bringing out the best in youth, the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club has long supported programs that encourage leadership, education, and service. Their message this Independence Day also carries a note of caution: to celebrate responsibly and with care for the well-being of all community members.
Whether you’re enjoying a fireworks show, hosting a backyard cookout, or attending a local parade, the Optimists encourage everyone to take necessary safety precautions — including practicing firework safety, staying hydrated, and being mindful of children and pets during loud festivities.
In the spirit of optimism and unity, the Club hopes this 4th of July serves not only as a celebration of our nation’s independence but also as a reminder of the strength and kindness within our local communities. From the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimists to you and yours — Happy Independence Day! Stay safe, celebrate responsibly, and continue to look out for one another.
Hello Summer: A Season of Sunshine and Optimism
[posted June 25, 2025]
The sun is shining, the waves are rolling, and the season of warmth and joy has officially arrived. The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club is thrilled to welcome the summer with open arms, vibrant energy, and a renewed spirit of optimism!
Summer is a time to relax, recharge, and reconnect — with nature, with each other, and with the things that bring us happiness. Whether it's the comfort of a striped beach chair under the palm trees, the feel of sand between your toes, or the refreshing splash of water at your favorite lake, summer offers a perfect backdrop for building memories that last a lifetime.
We want to send a cheerful message from our club to the entire community: embrace the joy, spread positivity, and make this summer your brightest yet.
At the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club, we believe in the power of youth, community, and hope. This summer, we’ll continue our mission through local service projects, youth activities, and neighborhood events that uplift and inspire. We invite you to join us in making a difference, one sunny day at a time.
From all of us at Optimist International — have a safe, fun, and fulfilling summer!
Building Community and Awareness: Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club Hosts June Gathering
[posted June 11, 2025]
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club continued its tradition of community enrichment and fellowship with its June Gathering, held on June 10 at the Southfield Parks & Recreation Offices. The event brought together local members, civic-minded individuals, and a special guest for an evening of learning, laughter, and support for youth-focused initiatives.
This month’s gathering featured guest speaker Ngoc Do, Community Engagement Specialist at Vibe Credit Union. Her timely and informative presentation, “Protecting Your Identity and Online Accounts,” addressed the rising concerns around digital security. Ngoc shared practical strategies to safeguard personal information, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in an increasingly online world. Attendees left with valuable tools to better protect themselves and their loved ones from fraud and identity theft.
President Shay added an element of fun and generosity with a mystery auction, unveiling a charming small tea set as the surprise item. The auction not only brought smiles and friendly competition but also served a greater purpose — all proceeds were donated to the Optimist International Foundation, further supporting the organization’s mission to bring out the best in youth, the community, and themselves.
The evening reflected the Optimist spirit: community-driven, educational, and rooted in positivity. As the club continues its monthly events, members and guests alike can look forward to more opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute to causes that make a meaningful difference.
Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club Hosts June Gathering Focused on Cybersecurity Awareness
[posted June 4, 2025]
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club, a proud member of Optimist International, is excited to announce its June Gathering on June 10 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, taking place at Southfield Parks & Recreation Office, 26000 Evergreen Rd (across from the library).
This month’s event will feature an engaging and timely presentation on online safety and identity protection, led by Ngoc Do, Community Engagement Specialist at Vibe Credit Union. Her talk, titled “Protecting Your Identity and Online Accounts,” will offer attendees practical tools and essential knowledge for staying secure in an increasingly digital world.
With cybercrime on the rise, understanding how to defend against identity theft and protect online accounts has never been more important. Ngoc Do brings a wealth of experience in community outreach and financial education. At Vibe Credit Union, she focuses on educating the public about fraud prevention, digital safety, and financial empowerment.
Attendees can expect to learn:
How to recognize and avoid common scams and phishing emails
The importance of strong, unique passwords and how to manage them
Ways to use multi-factor authentication and secure browsing practices
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club continues its commitment to community service, education, and personal development through monthly gatherings and local outreach. This event is free and open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.
Event Details:
📅 Date: June 10, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Southfield Parks & Recreation
Address: 26000 Evergreen Rd., Southfield, MI
Noah Prince Awarded Second Place in Michigan District Optimist Essay Contest
[posted May 19, 2025]
Noah Prince, a talented and thoughtful young writer, has been awarded second place in the prestigious Michigan District Optimist Essay Contest. This year's competition centered around the inspiring theme, “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success,” encouraging students across the state to reflect on the power of positive thinking in their personal journeys.
Noah's essay stood out among dozens of submissions for its heartfelt message, eloquent expression, and insightful perspective on the role optimism plays in achieving one’s goals. His ability to articulate how a hopeful mindset has influenced his achievements resonated strongly with the judges.
The award was presented to Noah during a special ceremony by Michigan District Governor Sean Mueller and Scholarship/Programs Chair Theresa Mills. In recognition of his achievement, Noah received a $1,500 scholarship, generously funded by Optimist member Stephen Saph Jr. The scholarship will support Noah’s continued pursuit of academic and personal excellence.
The Optimist Essay Contest is a long-standing program that encourages youth to develop writing and critical thinking skills while expressing their views on meaningful topics. Noah’s success not only highlights his dedication but also reflects the values of resilience and optimism that the contest promotes.
Congratulations to Noah Prince on this outstanding accomplishment and for exemplifying the spirit of optimism in action.
May Club Gathering Recap: Community, Fun, and Giving Back
[posted May 14, 2025]
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club held its monthly gathering on a cheerful spring evening at Panera Bread in Lathrup Village. As always, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to the Optimist mission of bringing out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
This month’s gathering featured a spirited round of Optimism BINGO, bringing out the competitive side of members in the best possible way. Smiles and good-natured banter filled the room as BINGO cards filled up and prizes were claimed.
A highlight of the evening was the Mystery Auction Item—a beautiful birdhouse that sparked a lively bidding war. All proceeds from the auction went to the Optimist International Foundation, supporting programs and scholarships that benefit youth across the country. The generosity of our members once again showed their dedication to making a positive impact.
Beyond the activities, the true value of the evening was found in simply being together— socializing, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company. These monthly meetings are more than just club business; they’re a reminder of the community spirit that unites us.
Mark your calendars for our next gathering on June 10. Whether you’re a long-time member or a curious newcomer, we’d love to have you join us. There’s always a seat at the table, and always something to look forward to with the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimists!
Community, Optimism,
and Leadership: Join
the Southfield-Lathrup
Village Optimist
Club's May Gathering
[posted May 7, 2025]
Date: Tuesday, May 13
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Panera Bread, Lathrup Village (27777 Southfield Rd.)
Gathering Agenda
Spring is in full bloom, and so is the spirit of community! The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club invites all members, friends, and curious newcomers to its May Gathering—an evening that promises warm fellowship, contagious optimism, and meaningful engagement.
Set against the welcoming backdrop of Panera Bread in Lathrup Village, this gathering on Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 PM is more than just a meeting—it's a celebration of the Club’s vibrant mission to bring out the best in youth, the community, and ourselves.
What’s Happening:
Fellowship & Connection
Enjoy time with fellow Optimists, share stories, and reconnect over food and laughter. Whether you're a long-time member or attending for the first time, you’ll find a place at the table.A Spirit of Optimism
The club continues its tradition of encouraging a positive outlook. This gathering will highlight stories of community impact and the collective good we strive for every day.Blind Auction Fun
Bring a wrapped or concealed item for the Blind Auction—a favorite tradition that combines mystery, excitement, and fundraising in one fun package. All proceeds support the Optimist International Foundation.Election of Officers for 2025–2026
Help shape the future of the club! Members will vote on the incoming officers who will lead and serve during the upcoming term. This is your chance to have a voice in our leadership and direction.
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club continues to be a beacon of service, joy, and leadership. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the positive change we bring to our community—one gathering at a time.
See you Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 PM!
Community Celebrates Teen Mental Wellness at Successful Southfield Forum
[posted May 5, 2025]
The Southfield Public Library came alive this past Sunday with heartfelt discussions, powerful performances, and vital resources during the Teen Mental Wellness Community Forum. Hosted on May 4 at 2 p.m., the event brought together youth, families, mental health professionals, and community leaders to engage in honest conversations and reduce stigma surrounding teen mental health.
Under the theme “Let’s Talk About Youth Mental Wellness”, the forum addressed the pressing topic: “Stomping Out Mental Health Stigmas with Resilience and Diversity of Mind.” The event was skillfully emceed by Trish Wyatt, LMSW, and featured dynamic conversations with local students and insightful participation from Southfield Police Department’s Lieutenant Teresa Young and Officer Brandon Walker.
Attendees were deeply moved by segments such as “Triggers” with Theadia Carey and Dr. Dayne Sherrell, which explored how mental health symptoms are often misunderstood. Licensed professionals discussed real-world diagnoses and the importance of understanding “Symptoms and Stigmas”. Workshops like “Leveling Stresses” offered practical tools for stress management through quality problem-solving methods.
Beyond the informative talks, the forum also celebrated youth expression and creativity. Dance performances, a vibrant youth symposium, and community booths provided an engaging and supportive atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed free food, raffles, and access to mental health resources from various local organizations.
With strong turnout and positive feedback from participants, this year’s forum marked a significant step forward in promoting open dialogue about teen mental wellness in Southfield and beyond. Organizers hope to continue building on this momentum to create a more supportive and stigma-free future for all youth.
View our photo gallery of the event below.
Noah Prince Earns District-Level Recognition for Powerful Essay
[posted April 15, 2025]
University of Detroit Jesuit High School & Academy sophomore Noah Prince is turning heads with his writing talent, recently earning second place at the District level of the Optimist International Essay Contest. His essay stood out among submissions from students across the region, a testament to Noah’s thoughtful perspective, eloquent writing, and strong sense of purpose.
This prestigious recognition is just the latest achievement for the multifaceted 10th grader, who continues to balance academic excellence, community involvement, and a deep commitment to extracurriculars. A proud honor roll student with a 3.8 GPA, Noah is not only a skilled writer but also a driven student-athlete. At school, he’s involved in the Track Team, Swim Team, Choir, and Theater Program, where he thrives in both artistic and athletic arenas. Outside the classroom, he competes as a swimmer with Razor Aquatics, an all-Black competitive swim team dedicated to increasing diversity in the sport.
Noah’s impact goes beyond his school and sports teams. He is an active member of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., Oakland County Chapter, and serves as a youth leader at Hope United Methodist Church. In recognition of his dedication to service, he was honored with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 2024 Youth Community Service Award. In addition to his Optimist Club success, Noah also won first place in the 2024 Teen Mental Wellness Community Forum Essay Contest, earning him a scholarship offer from Lawrence Technological University (LTU).
Noah Prince’s District-level essay win is a proud moment—not only for him, but also for his school, his community, and the many young people he inspires through his words and actions. Whether he’s crafting essays, competing in the pool, performing on stage, or volunteering in his community, Noah proves that excellence comes in many forms—and he’s just getting started.
Southfield-Lathrup
Village Optimist Club
Hosts WOW Event to
Welcome New Faces
[posted April 9, 2025]
On Tuesday, April 8, the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club hosted a lively WOW (Welcome Optimists Worldwide) Event at Panera Bread in Lathrup Village. The evening served as a social mixer aimed at introducing prospective members to the club’s mission and activities—and it was a resounding success!
Five new faces joined the gathering, where members and guests mingled over light refreshments, enjoyed fun ice breakers, and shared stories about the club’s impactful community programs throughout the year.
A highlight of the evening was the “secret silent auction,” a playful surprise where member Tony took home a unique prize—fresh chicken eggs from Club President Shay’s home farm! All proceeds from the auction were donated to the Optimist International Foundation, helping to support youth-focused programs around the globe.
The event captured the spirit of optimism, connection, and community service that the club is known for—and left everyone excited for what’s ahead.
Spreading Warmth
and Kindness:
Optimist Club
Partners with Donate
Life Michigan
[posted April 4, 2025]
Last week, the Optimist Club of Southfield-Lathrup Village joined forces with Donate Life Michigan for a meaningful service project—creating comfort blankets for those in need. With the help of our dedicated Junior Optimists, we crafted seven cozy no-sew blankets, contributing to a larger effort that resulted in over 100 blankets made by all volunteers.
These blankets will provide warmth and support to individuals facing difficult times, reinforcing the power of community, compassion, and giving back. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to make a difference and for everyone who participated in this heartwarming initiative.
Together, we continue to bring optimism, hope, and kindness to those who need it most! 💙✨
Join Us for an Exciting
WOW Gathering!
[posted April 2, 2025]
We are beyond excited to invite you to our upcoming WOW (Welcome Optimists Worldwide) Gathering! This is more than just a gathering—it’s an opportunity to come together, share positivity, and build meaningful connections with fellow optimists. Whether you're a long-time member or new to the group, this event is for YOU!
Event Details
📅 Date: Tuesday, April 8, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM EST
📍 Location: Panera Bread, 27777 Southfield Road, Lathrup Village, MI 48076
What to Expect
Our 2nd Tuesday Agenda is designed to be both engaging and inspiring! Here’s a sneak peek:
✅ Call to Order – Join us as we kick off the evening with the Pledge of Allegiance.
✅ Welcome & Introduction – Break the ice over a delicious meal and get to know fellow optimists.
✅ Get to Know an Optimist – Discover club events, community service ideas, and celebrate successes with ‘Fines & Brags.’ Plus, don’t miss the fun of our Mystery Auction!
✅ Closing – End the night on a high note with our one-word theme for the week and the uplifting Optimist Creed.
This gathering is all about connecting, inspiring, and growing together. And guess what? The more, the merrier! 🎉 Bring a friend along and introduce them to the incredible energy and spirit of our Optimist Club.
Let’s break bread, share smiles, and make a positive impact—one gathering at a time! We can’t wait to see you there!
Join the Conversation: Teen Mental Wellness Community Forum
[posted March 25, 2025]
Mental health is a vital conversation—especially for today’s youth. Join us on Sunday, May 4, at 2 p.m. at the Southfield Public Library for the Teen Mental Wellness Community Forum, where students, parents, and guardians can engage in meaningful discussions about mental health challenges, resilience, and breaking stigmas.
What to Expect
Hosted by Trish Wyatt, LMSW, this event will feature R.E.A.L. (Respectful, Engaging, Actionable, Lasting) Talk! bringing together professionals to discuss:
🔹 Triggers – Southfield Police Department’s Lieutenant Teresa Young & Officer Brandon Walker
🔹 Symptoms & Stigmas – Dr. Theadia Carey & Dr. Dayne Sherrell
🔹 Diagnosis & Mental Wellness – Licensed Clinical Professionals
🔹 Managing Stress & Problem-Solving – Accredited Trainers
Enjoy a Youth Symposium, dance performances, raffles, food, and mental health resources, all in a safe space for open conversation.
Student Essay Contest – Share Your Voice!
The Optimist Club of Southfield-Lathrup Village is hosting an essay contest for 6th–12th grade students in Southfield and Lathrup Village.
📌 Essay Topics (Choose 2-4):
📅 Deadline: Monday, April 21, 2025
📩 Submit to: slvoptimist@gmail.com
🏆 Prizes: Monetary awards for 1st – 3rd place winners & potential scholarships!
Full contest application and details on our “Youth Programs” page.
Empowering Young Musicians: The Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship 2025
[posted March 18, 2025]
Music has the profound ability to inspire, uplift, and transform lives. For high school instrumentalists in Michigan, the Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship offers a unique opportunity to further their musical education and passion. Now in its third year, this scholarship is dedicated to supporting students in grades nine through eleven, helping them enhance their skills and deepen their love for music.
About the Scholarship
The Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship was established with the mission to provide financial assistance to talented high school musicians. The scholarship funds can be utilized for various purposes, including:
Private Lessons: Personalized instruction to refine technique and artistry.
Music Camps: Immersive experiences that offer intensive training and performance opportunities.
Instrument Upgrades: Acquiring new instruments or enhancing existing ones with better accessories, such as bows or mouthpieces.
By alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with musical development, the scholarship aims to encourage long-term involvement in music performance and education.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Residency: Attend high school in the state of Michigan or be sponsored by a current Michigan District Optimist Club.
Grade Level: Be in the ninth (9th) through eleventh (11th) grade.
Music Program Participation: Be current members of their high school instrumental or orchestral music program.
These criteria ensure that the scholarship reaches dedicated students committed to their musical growth.
Application Process
Interested students are required to complete the following steps:
Application Form: Fill out the student application form available on the scholarship’s official website.
Teacher Recommendation: Obtain a recommendation from a music teacher who can attest to the applicant’s skills and dedication.
Performance Video: Submit a video recording of a musical performance, lasting between two to five minutes, showcasing the applicant’s proficiency.
All application materials must be submitted by April 15, 2025. Applicants will be kept informed about the status of their application throughout the selection process.
Selection and Awards
A total of $2,000 will be awarded to deserving high school students in Michigan. The scholarship committee will review applications based on the completeness of the application, the teacher’s recommendation, and the quality of the performance video.
Scholarship recipients will be announced during the Michigan District Optimists Third Quarter Conference in May 2025. The exact time and date will be determined and communicated to applicants. Should there be any changes due to unforeseen circumstances, such as public health concerns, announcements will be made via USPS mail.
Utilizing the Scholarship
Scholarship awards must be used by September 15, 2025. If the scholarship is intended for private lessons, recipients are required to maintain a Private Lesson Verification Log, which should be submitted to the scholarship committee no later than October 1, 2025. Payment will be made directly to the student within thirty days after the log has been received and verified.
Supporting the Scholarship
The Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship thrives on the generosity of individuals and organizations passionate about music education. Donations to fund the scholarship can be sent to the Optimist International Foundation (OIF) care of the Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship. Any amount contributed will supplement the founders’ contributions and will be entirely awarded to student winners.
Contact Information
For any questions or further information, please contact the Scholarship Committee:
Debra Berry
Phone: 248/467-0592 Email: deb@debinparis.com
Michelle Kauffold
Phone: 313-510-6300 Email: newmichelle@att.net
The Berry/Kauffold Music Scholarship stands as a testament to the commitment of nurturing young musical talent in Michigan. By providing financial support and encouragement, the scholarship helps students pursue their musical dreams and contributes to the cultural enrichment of the community. If you or someone you know meets the eligibility criteria, consider applying for this opportunity to further your musical journey. For more details and to access the application forms, visit the official scholarship website below:
Oratorical Contest Applications Are Due for Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club
[posted March 14, 2025]
Attention all young speakers and aspiring leaders! The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club is excited to announce that applications for this year’s Oratorical Contest are now open. The deadline for submission is Saturday, March 15, 2025. This is a wonderful opportunity for youth to showcase their speaking talents while reflecting on the powerful impact of optimism in their lives.
This Year’s Topic: How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times
The theme for this year’s contest is “How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times.” Participants will have the chance to share their personal stories, experiences, and reflections on how optimism has helped them navigate challenges, overcome adversity, and stay positive in difficult situations.
How to Apply
To enter the Oratorical Contest, applicants can find the application form on the Youth Programs page of the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club’s website. Don’t miss out—be sure to submit your application by Saturday, March 15, 2025, to be considered for this incredible opportunity.
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out! President Shay and club member Xandria are available via email at slvoptimist@gmail.com. They are happy to provide guidance and support to ensure your submission is complete.
Why Participate?
Participating in the Oratorical Contest is a great way for young people to develop their public speaking skills, build confidence, and express their thoughts on important subjects. The Optimist Club fosters positive growth and encourages young individuals to embrace optimism as a tool for success. This contest is a unique chance to make your voice heard while gaining valuable experience.
Mark your calendar and submit your application by March 15, 2025. We look forward to hearing how optimism has shaped your journey!
Annual Essay Contest is Open!
[posted October 17, 2024]
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club is hosting its annual Essay Contest Scholarship Program. The topic is “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success”. Please view our Youth Programs page for more information and the application. Applications are due January 31, 2025.
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Club Gatherings
Gather every 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Mars Corporate Center Blvd., 25200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 120, Southfield, MI 48033
© 2025 Optimist Club of Southfield and Lathrup Village, Inc.
