Optimist International president to volunteer at Reading in the Park

Tracy Huxley, the 2023-24 president of Optimist International, will visit Sumter and the Palmetto Optimist Club's Reading in the Park on Saturday, April 20, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Memorial Park. This event is a part of the larger Art in the Park hosted by the Heart of Sumter Neighborhood Association and is a celebration of literacy and community spirit.

During the Reading in the Park event, children will receive free books and listen to stories by community readers and Huxley herself. The Sumter community donated books throughout March.

Huxley, hailing from London, Ontario, Canada, has been deeply involved with the Optimist organization since 1996, following in the footsteps of her father, a charter member. Through the years, she has held various leadership positions within the international service club organization, highlighting her dedication and commitment to the cause. As a goldsmith by trade, Huxley runs a family business where she designs, repairs and manufactures jewelry. Beyond her professional pursuits, she is also a certified dog trainer.

To Huxley, optimism is not just a slogan but a way of life. She envisions a world where every individual holds hope for the future and has the opportunity to give back to their community.

Huxley will be volunteering throughout the day, including Story Time at 11 a.m., when she will read "The Magical Yet" by Angela DiTerlizzi.

Arts and craft vendors, live entertainment from Johnny Hilton, Family & Friends as well as food, drinks and free kid-friendly arts and crafts activities will be available throughout the day during Art in the Park. Art in the Park will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sumter Memorial Park, 419 W. Hampton Ave. Visit HSNASumterSC.com for more information.