Childhood Cancer Campaign

Through this unique program, Optimist are building awareness of the disease that kills more children than any other in North America. Members are focused on providing care and support to these children and their families, while raising funds for research to find a cure.

 

Internet Safety

The program is designed to educate both young people and their parents about potiental dangers on the internet and to offer information about safe practices while online. A teen program has been developed to raise awareness of threats like cyber bullying, posting inappropriate or damaging content on social networking websites and internet predators.

 

Junior Optimist Octagon International (JOOI)

Yound people have the opportunity to learn the importance of volunterism, teamwork, communication, self-esteem and citizenship through the Optimists' JOOI program. As a result, youth report feeling an improved sense of kindness and an increased awareness for those in need.

 

Optimist Junior Golf

As one of the junior golf's most prestigious events, the Optimist International Junior Golf Championships provide a unique opportunity for junior golfers from around the globe. Every year, thousands of golfers ages 10-18 compete in local Optimist qualifying tournaments with top finishers advancing to Optimst.

 

Optimst Scholarship Contests:

 

Essay- This contest gives young people the opportunity to express their views and opinions regarding the world in which they live. Optimist International awards each District contest winner a scholarship to be used for higher education.

 

Oratorical- As Optimist International's oldest program, this contest invites young people to gain experience in public speaking. District winners receive scholarships for advanced educations, funded by the Optimist International Foundations.

 

Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH)- The CCDHH contest provides an opportunity for young people who are deaf and hard of hearing to communicare in a public forum while developing valuable skills and confidence. The Optimist International Foundations annually fund a scholarship for each participating Optimist District.

 

Respect for Law/Day of Non-Violence

Promote peace and harmony within your community! Optimists accomplish this by honoring law enforcement officials, initiating block parent programs, sponsoring fingerprinting events and starting neighboorhood watches.

 

Tri-Star Sports Skills Contest

This activity offers opportunities to promote self-confidence and physical fitness through fun competetion. It can be sponsored by Clubs of all sizes. Since there is no physical contact or advanced skill required, it is the ideal activity for every child, including those with disabilities.

 

Youth Appreciation

Build students' self-esteem by recognizing their talents in the arts, atletics, academics or their contributions to the community. Recognize youth who have made a change for the better in their lives or overcome a hardship. To honor deserving youth, Optimists have hosted swim parties and bowling nights, planned youth lock-ins, chaperoned field trips and provided funds for school supplies.

 

Youth Safety

Keeping Children safe has been an important part of Optimist programs for many years. Members sponsor a wide range of activities, including teaching youth about importing safety issues that they encounter every day, such as traveling in a car or on the school bus. Optimist events, such as bicycle rodeo can make learning safety skills fun for everyone involved.