The Rosedale Optimist Club, in existence since 1958, has a knack for stepping up at just the right time. In response to several RDA urgent needs, the Optimists recently made a contribution of $2,000 to RDA's youth programs - thus, more Rosedale children and families will be able to participate and benefit from the programs this year.

The donation is especially timely this year because RDA's Excellence in Education program, a partnership with KU Community Policing and several Rosedale-area schools, lost its funding for T-shirts that are given as awards to students who achieve at a high level. In the Excellence in Education program, students are recognized for academic excellence, near-perfect attendance, and citizenship. They are honored at a public ceremony, and presented with a trophy, medal, and/or T-shirt.

The Optimists' generosity will allow the program to continue as it has in the past. Through a connection with Appreciated Advertising, a full-service advertising specialties company located on Merriam Lane , the club purchased the T-shirts and was able to secure a discounted price for the printing. Appreciated Advertising also waived the normal set-up and design fees. Look for a feature article on the company in next month's Rosedalian.

"What we [Optimists] do is work for the youth," says Pat Brown, an active Rosedale Optimist and former member of the RDA Board. "Since we're a Rosedale club, we try to help the youth in this area."

The $2,000 donation is just the most recent of the Optimists' contributions to RDA and the Rosedale community. Over the years, Brown estimates that the Rosedale club has given more than $10,000 to RDA. Most of the money has gone toward youth programs, in line with the Optimists' mission, however the Rosedale club has also contributed to the maintenance of the Rosedale Arch grounds. They have sponsored a bench in the park surrounding the Arch, and they have given money for new flags for the Arch flagpole.

In addition, the Rosedale Optimists co-sponsor the annual Easter Egg Hunt in Whitmore Park , along with the Rainbow Mennonite Church/Sharing Community in Rosedale.

RDA would not be able to function without partners like the Rosedale Optimist Club. This most recent donation will empower RDA to continue serving the youth and families of Rosedale , with programs that make a difference in their lives. Thank you, Rosedale Optimists!