Dear Indiana South Optimist Club Members,
Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes our annual Spring Conference in
April in the great town of Jasper! This is a time to celebrate, re-energize, and look
forward to seeing everyone together. As members and friends of the Optimist Club,
each of us shares a common goal: to make our communities brighter and offer hope to
children and families across Indiana.
This year let’s renew our commitment to growth but not only in our programs, but in our
membership. There are so many people out there with big hearts like our neighbors,
friends, and colleagues who would love the chance to join our mission of spreading
optimism and opportunity. By inviting others to join us, we multiply the impact we can
have and ensure that every program, every project, and every act of kindness reaches
even more families and children in need of support.
Let’s also take every opportunity to share the incredible work we’re doing. Every story
of a child helped, a family encouraged, or a community uplifted, is a story worth telling.
Through our newsletters, social media, and word of mouth, let’s shine a spotlight on the
difference Optimists make. Our outreach will inspire others to get involved and remind
everyone that optimism is contagious!
Together, we can turn hope into action and dreams into reality. Let’s use this Spring
Conference as a launching pad for renewed enthusiasm and bigger impact as we grow
our membership, expand our programs, and reach as many people as we can.
Thank you for all that you do for your club, your community, and our shared mission. I
am excited to see what we accomplish together and look forward to connecting with you
all this April.
With optimism and gratitude,
Monica Wallace
Governor, Indiana South District Optimists
A message from Regional Vice President – Middle America Region
Dear Optimist Friends,
It is my honor and privilege to serve as your Regional Vice President for the Middle America Region.
From the very first time I volunteered with an Optimist service project, I felt something click: a deep
alignment between who I am and what our Optimist organization stands for. Hope. Action.
Community. Growth. That’s the heart of Optimist International, and it’s what fuels my commitment
every single day.
Professionally, I’ve spent 25+ years in education and nonprofit management. That journey gave me
the skills and perspective to lead, but more importantly, it grounded me in service. Today, I work as
a project manager by day-and pour my energy into being an Optimist by night (and let’s be honest,
most weekends too).
While I’ve served in many roles throughout my Optimist career, the ones closest to my heart have
been Governor of the East Missouri District (2020 – 2021) and International Leadership
Development Chair (2023 – 2024). In those roles, I’ve had the joy of nurturing leaders, building
connections and helping others discover just how powerful they can be when they lead with hope.
But beyond the titles, what truly fills my cup is being out in the community-volunteering side by side,
learning from others, and doing the hands-on work that reminds us why we do what we do.
My guiding light is a line from our Creed: “To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to
expect only the best.” It’s a bold standard and a daily practice. This year, I promise to walk beside
you with optimism, courage, and a deep respect for the work you’re doing in your clubs, your
communities and your hearts.
Here’s to a year of purpose, connection, and unstoppable hope. I can’t wait to see all that we’ll
accomplish — together.
With deep optimism,
Liz Christman
Regional Vice President – Middle America Region
From the heart of Middle America-with hope and purpose
This conference will have our District Oratorical Contest and will reveal our Essay Contest winner. You won't want to miss this conference.
Agenda: TBA
Friday Funday (on your own) Schnitzelbank 393 Third Ave, Jasper, IN 47546 6:30 pm EST
Lunch $17
Pecan Chicken
Smoked Pork Butt
Red Mashed Potatoes
Green Beans
Roasted Carrots
Fresh vegetable tray
Assorted desserts and drinks
Roll w/Butter
For more information, please visit our webpage:
https://www.indianaoptimist.org/events-links/
Hotel Accommodation
Hampton Inn Jasper
355 3rd Ave
Jasper, IN 47546
$135 + tax Breakfast included.
Cut off date 4/03/2026
812-481-1888 Group Code: Indiana South District Optimist
Reservation due by April 4, 2026
link on website
https://www.indianaoptimist.org/
Also check out other Contests in Jasper.
