Manchester Civic Club - In Search of New Members

The Manchester Civic Club is in search of new members. The Civic Club is a service organization focusing on the youth of our community. It is an outgrowth of The Optimist Club that was established in Manchester in the 1950's. They sponsor local groups and events both monetarily and with man-hours, some of which include: a Christmas Shopping spree and party for under-privileged kids, Girl and Boy Scouts, the TEAM program at Klager elementary, the steer club at the Manchester Fair, and a monthly student of the month from Manchester High School.

Currently there are 25 members, both male and female. Mark VanBogelen explained that members range in age from 50 into their 80’s and the club would like to expand and include younger members. Membership entails participating in the monthly meeting and events. There is no fundraising.

Most members serve on a committee. Committees include Achievement in Education, Chicken Broil, Farmer's Night, High School Football game tickets, Scouting, TEAM Program, Halloween Caramel Apples, Steer Club and Student of the Month.

Meetings are on the second Monday of the month at 6:30pm, September through May. Meetings are held at Emmanuel Church Fellowship Hall. The meetings include a catered dinner, short business meeting and a program. Recent programs have included pertinent speakers on Firefighter appreciation, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and School Board appreciation. There is an annual fee of $250 which covers both dues and the cost of the dinners. It is collected quarterly.

The next meeting is February 10th and is focusing on encouraging new members to join. If you are interested in helping the youth in our community please call Mark VanBogelen at (734) 427-7872 for more details and to reserve your spot.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.