The Optimist Club of Van Wert is gearing up again for the 2021 Avenue of Flags program! Each year, the group places American flags around town during 5 summer and fall holidays. This year the club plans on displaying about 400 large flags in front of homes and businesses. Besides being a community patriotism activity, this is the group’s largest annual fundraising activity.
Just by participating, you are able to showcase your patriotism and thank those that have served or who are currently serving. Did you know you also benefit area youth? The money earned by this program is directly reinvested into other programs we offer that benefit the youth in the area.
Program details:
For $50/year, our club will deliver and place your flag before each holiday and retrieve it after the holiday. The Optimist Club of Van Wert is responsible for the placement of the flag and proper storage after the flags have been recovered. If you wish to display more than one flag, you receive a $10.00 discount per flag.
Participants in this program receive a 3’ by 5’ high-quality, American flag on a 10’ flagpole within 15’ of the curb in front of your home or business for the following days surrounding five national holidays: Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veterans Day. Club members will install the flags a few days before the holiday and remove them a few days after each holiday.
Volunteer Opportunities
The club is looking for help! Community members, churches, civic groups, etc. are needed in order to help get all the flags out before each holiday or picked up a few days after. Typically, a shift takes 1-2 hours and the timing of the shift is flexible. They are looking for individuals who could help, even with just 1 or 2 shifts per summer in helping with the service project.
If you or your organization can help, please call the Edward Jones office of Trevor Webster. 419-232-2057. Your name will be added to a list and you will be contacted to attend a short informational meeting in May. Also, if you would like to order a flag or request information, please call the same number.