WICHITA FALLS ( KFDX/KJTL ) —Since 1924, the Optimist Club of Wichita Falls has helped shape the futures of youth through financial support, mentorship, and community service.

One hundred years later, organization president Marc Cannedy gets to ring in the milestone anniversary.

“The group of men that came together to form this organization did so with the sole purpose over the years, and again, the way that mission is accomplished may look a little bit different today than it did 100 years ago, but the mission of this club is still dedicated to that sole mission of the youth,” Cannedy said.

Several members of the Optimist Club of Wichita Falls have served the organization for many years. Jeff Pendley is a club member going as far back as 40 years. From his first days in the organization to now, he’s become a different person.

“It just made me a better person,” Pendley said. “I’ve been able to get out in the community and speak up for the children here and there, Boys and Girls Club, Camp Fire, or just in general.”

While the Optimist Club has its own ventures, like Christmas Tree sales, it also regularly partners with the Boys and Girls Club for fundraisers and other events.

Former Director of Operations for the Boys and Girls Club of Wichita Falls, Carlos Martinez, attributes much of who he is today to the efforts of the Optimist Club during his youth.

“For me, it was the chance to be able to see the role models. I mean, there were some really good people there,” Martinez said. “But being able to spend time with them and know that they cared and took care of me per se, that really affected me through the years.”

Through 100 years of growth and change, the Optimist Club hopes to continue guiding today’s youth in rapidly changing times.

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