Optimist Clubs are voluntary service organizations of civic-minded men and women motivated by the desire to contribute to the community in which they live. Members are united in their purpose of developing Optimism as a philosophy of life; inspiring respect for the law; promoting patriotism; working for international accord and friendship among all people; and aiding and encouraging the development of youth. Optimists believe that in the giving of one’s self in service to others, the well-being of man, his community, and the world will be advanced. Membership is composed of citizens drawn from business, industry, and many other professions as well as retirees.

Optimist Clubs are united through Optimist International, one of the largest service organizations in the world. With over 4,300 clubs and more than 150,000 members throughout North America, Europe, and the Caribbean, Optimists raise $45 million annually to spend on community projects that serve over eight million youth in our communities.

Optimist International’s mission is to foster an optimistic way of life, through a network of optimist members, dedicated to the full development of their potential in order to provide ever-expanding service to youth, the community, and the world.

Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as an organization of people committed to optimism and self-development for the improvement of youth and community.

Purposes of The Optimist Club:

• To develop optimism as a philosophy of life;
• To promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs;
• To inspire respect for law;
• To promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people;
• To aid and encourage the development of youth;
• In the belief that the giving of one's self in serviceto others will advance the well-being of man, his community, and the world.