King's signs partnership agreement with Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres

King’s University College has signed a new partnership agreement with a London organization that strives to serve youth, the Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres. The purpose of the agreement is to strengthen opportunities for community development in the larger London community, and allow both King’s and the Optimist Club to strive towards the shared goal of creating a stronger community for youth in London.

As part of the agreement, Marilyn Mason, Vice-Principal, Enrolment Services and Strategic Partnerships, signed for King’s while Brian Gibson, Third Year Philosophy and Religious Studies student at King’s signed for the Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres in his role as President.

“We are excited to be partnered with the Oakridge Optimist Club. The club’s commitment to London youth is widely known and appreciated.  Brian Gibson, Club President, is a King’s student who exemplifies leadership, dedication and commitment to community.  We are very proud of Brian and are equally proud to be partnered with this great organization,” says Mason.

Under the articles of the partnership agreement, King’s University College and the Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres will work to allow students to experience voluntary service opportunities as well as provide outlets for leadership and personal development for youth at the Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres, King’s University College and the larger London community. As well, the Optimists will be welcome members of the King’s community, holding special events on campus.

Students, staff and faculty who are interested in joining the Optimist Club as volunteer members can find out more information https://sites.google.com/site/oakridgeoptimists/about-the-oakridge-optimists/Home

The Club has been active in London since 1957 and is part of a worldwide organization, Optimist International. King’s Manager of Communication, Jane Antoniak, is also a member of the club and was part of the development of the new partnership. “The Optimists support youth in our community in many ways,” says Antoniak. “I am most proud of how the club recognizes youth leadership and also encourages youth to be the best they can be via sports, educational and civic programs.”