News
Here is a brief history of our club and its activities...
Club Charter
Our club was formed July 1st, 2015. Originally, we were called Sierra Nevada Youth Optimist Club. However, when Optimist International changed the name of the program for youth clubs to "Junior Optimist International," we changed our name, too. We hope to spread "JOI" with out outreach and activities!
Robotics Camp
Beginning in the summer of 2015, we have held weeklong robotics camps on a regular basis. Beyond building and programming robots, we teach skills like teamwork.
Training Workshops for LEGO Robotics
Starting in September 2015, we have been participating in annual workshops for LEGO robotics and specifically those participating in the FIRST LEGO League. The workshops are for both coaches and team members, and we focus on robot programming.
Souper Bowl of Caring
The Souper Bowl of Caring is an annual program for Junior Optimist International clubs, and we first participated in January 2016. In the most recent drive, we partnered with the Carson High School robotics team, Cyber Mafia (FTC 5687) and collected more than 50 pounds of food!
Robotics Events at Libraries
Beginning in March 2016, we held our first robotics outreach event at the Douglas County Library in Minden. Some events are quick "introduction to robot programming" events, and others are demonstration events. Since then, we have expanded our reach, doing demonstrations at the Carson City Library and the South Valleys Library (in Reno).
Climb for Kids
The first time we participated in the Optimist Club of Reno's Climb for Kids was April 2016. The event is a fundraiser for college scholarships awarded by the Optimist Club of Reno.
Volunteering at FIRST Events
Beginning with the northern Nevada qualifying competitions in December 2016, our club members have served as Referees at all FIRST LEGO League events held by FIRST Nevada. Additionally, we have volunteered as FIRST LEGO League Jr Reviewers and FIRST Tech Challenge Robot/Field Inspectors.