The Gresham, Oregon Chamber of Commerce recently honored Gresham Optimist Club member Jim Slauson with a Volunteer of the Year Award. Following is an excerpt of his nomination:
Jim Slauson, a retired Gresham police captain, joined the Gresham Optimist Club in 1975 and used his knowledge of Gresham and his relationships to benefit the community. His “physical fitness” program collects tree trimmings from the city and cuts, splits, stacks and dries the wood, which is then donated to residents who need heat.
Slauson was instrumental in coordination and execution of the annual Shop With a Cop, Fireman and Optimist event. He is also a founding member and past president of Beat the Heat, which was created to crack down on illegal street racing.
These successes led Slauson to later act as the Pacific Northwest district governor and the district secretary, not once but twice.
Congratulations Jim, and thank you for your commitment to your community through the Optimist Club.
