Kirksville Optimist Club

09/17/2026

Thank you Carroll Nelson Harris III, Executive Director of Guardian Hills for the great presentation at the Optimist Club Meeting.

Guardian Hills exists to support those who have spent their lives protecting others. Through immersive programs, peer connection, personal growth, leadership development, and evidence-based approaches to healing and post-traumatic growth, we help participants strengthen their ability to thrive—not merely survive.

After more than 35 years of service as a United States Marine Corps officer, DEA Special Agent, and U.S. Postal Inspector, I am honored to continue serving in a new capacity.

09/15/2026

Thanks so much to Jenn Vaughn from Community Action Partnership of Northeast Missouri for sharing about her role as Director of Child Services at CAPNEMO. The new infant and toddler program coming to Kirksville will be great for families! 

09/06/2026

We had another very interesting and informative presentation from Jennifer Eldridge on 9D breathwork! Thanks for teaching us how our breathing can reduce stress and anxiety.  Members got the opportunity to try out a little exercise too. Pictured with Jennifer is September Optimist president Neal Chamberlain. 

08/19/2026

Thanks to Laci Cook, Executive Director of Mainstreet Kirksville, for sharing details of the upcoming Wh***ey Turkey Festival! Thank you for all of your hard work to make downtown shine!

08/12/2026

Thank you to NEMO Fair Board Member, Don Reynolds, for sharing his insight on how this year’s NEMO Fair went! We appreciate you taking the time to give us an update and helping our community stay connected to all the great things happening at the fair. 🎡

08/05/2026

A fun and informational meeting this morning! Thanks to Lisa Archer, Director of Stimulation and Performance Assessment at ATSU for your informative program.

We would also like to wish Optimist member Gale Gordon a safe and happy move to Kansas City. We hope you can come back and visit! 

07/31/2026

07/22/2026

Today we had a fun and informational meeting at Kirksville High School today. First, we heard from head football coach Bruce Munden about his family’s move to Kirksville and his current football regime. Next, we got a tour of the construction going on by architect Harold Boerstler. Thanks to both of you for sharing information with the group!