Optimists offer way to show patriotism

VW independent/submitted information

The Optimist Club of Van Wert offers area residents the Avenue of Flags program year after year. It’s a great way to show patriotism and unity during this difficult time. The club’s goal also continues to be to display national pride and appreciation for those who have served, while also raising funds for Optimists’ area youth programs.

Club members invite local residents to participate in this patriotic community service, which is a wonderful way to honor American troops and help support Optimist Club youth programs and activities. Club members also invite local residents to volunteer in the installation and removal of these flags during the holidays listed below.

The Optimist Club will place a 3-by 5-foot high-quality American flag on a 10-foot flagpole within 15 feet of the curb in front of a home or business for five national holidays:

• Memorial Day
• Flag Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Veterans Day

For $50 a year the club delivers and places flags prior to each holiday and retrieves them after the holiday. Remember, the Optimist Club of Van Wert is responsible for replacement of the flag and proper storage after the flags have been retrieved, but club members are currently looking for volunteers to assist in spreading patriotism. For those people who want to display more than one flag at the same address, there are discounts available.

To participate, reach out to any Optimist Club member or email optimistvw@gmail.com to inquire how to join. To see a flyer on the program, click here.