Optimists from across South Carolina gathered Saturday, Oct. 24, at Manning United Methodist Church for the South Carolina Optimist District’s (SCOD) first-quarter conference. The conference marked the first time the full South Carolina district has met in Manning, bringing together members for a day of leadership development, collaboration, community engagement and inspiration.
District Gov. Dr. Lisa Justice welcomed members representing communities throughout the state, including Spartanburg, Columbia, Rock Hill and Myrtle Beach. Guided by the theme “The Heart of Optimism,” the conference celebrated the power of service, the importance of community connections and the positive impact individuals and organizations can make when they lead with heart. The Optimist Club of Clarendon served as local host and assisted in organizing the daylong event.
A highlight of the morning schedule was the keynote presentation by retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Lefford Fate, an author and speaker from Sumter, who shared a compelling message centered on the HEART framework for conflict resolution and the Heart of a Leader. His presentation offered attendees practical insights into navigating disagreements, strengthening relationships and approaching challenges within clubs or organizations with understanding and purpose.
The morning then turned to the Heart of a Club, giving members time to reflect on and strengthen their signature service projects. Bonnie Sherbert of the Palmetto Optimist Club of Sumter, who serves as vice president-elect for the Southeast Region of Optimist International, led attendees in examining how their clubs’ projects can create meaningful, lasting change in their communities.
“Hosting this conference in Manning was a great opportunity to showcase the people, partnerships, and community spirit that make Clarendon County special,” said Justice. “Optimism is more than a positive outlook. It is a commitment to serving others, developing leaders, and working together to make our communities better places to live.”
In the afternoon, attendees heard from two local organizations dedicated to service and community impact. Eliana Jenkinson of Well-Watered Ministries spoke during a lunch-and-learn session and urged South Carolina Optimists to find similar partners in their respective communities. The Optimist Club of Clarendon has supported several of the ministry's projects over the last two years. During Jenkinson’s session, the club was able to present a $750 donation to one initiative coming up at Christmas, Shop with a Hero.
Scott Danbeck of the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office and Matteo’s Mission, along with his wife, Renee, then completed the day with a presentation tailored just for Optimists, connecting their therapy dogs, Matteo and Minka, to the Optimist Creed, a major pillar of the Optimist philosophy. The Danbecks shared the many community events their pups attend, providing emotional support and positive energy to both children and adults in Clarendon. Matteo and Minka also travel outside the county for special occasions and visits in places like Columbia, Florence and Sumter.
The overall success of the conference reflected the collaboration and hospitality of the Manning community. Conference and Convention Chair Claudette Elliott worked alongside local Optimist Club members and area restaurants to coordinate the venue, decorations and meals.
“We would like to thank The Orchard Café and Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse for providing our guests with a wonderful lunch and dessert, showing why they are two of the Best of Clarendon,” said Elliott.
The day was particularly meaningful for members of the Clarendon Optimist Club who attended their first district conference. Laci Thompson, Josey Pack, Heather Teems, Louise Murray and Sandra Marcy joined Terry Land, Elliott, Justice and other fellow Optimists for a day of learning, networking and renewed inspiration for service.
Local leaders took notice and were also present at the conference. State Rep. Fawn Pedalino greeted attendees with a beautiful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the conference opened, and Manning Mayor Julia Nelson gave a welcome and remarks to attendees as lunch began.
At the end of the day, the SCOD first-quarter conference reinforced the mission of Optimist International: to bring out the best in youth, in our communities and in ourselves. Through leadership, volunteerism and collaboration, the gathering demonstrated how a shared commitment to serving others can strengthen communities across South Carolina.
“Thank you everyone who attended, contributed, and supported our time to shine and for making our Optimism come true right here in Clarendon,” said Justice.
About the Optimist Club of Clarendon
The Optimist Club of Clarendon is a volunteer service organization dedicated to bringing out the best in kids and supporting youth, schools and families throughout Clarendon County. Formed in 2017 as part of Optimist International, the club works to promote positive change through service projects, fundraisers and events that inspire hope and encourage growth.
Members meet the second Tuesday of every month at local restaurants. “We’re a low-key, fun group who all enjoy helping kids,” say members when asked to describe what the club is all about.
For more information, contact club president Claudette Elliott through the club’s Facebook page or email optimistclubclarendon@gmail.com.
