2025
107th Optimist International Convention
St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1820 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103
TENTATIVE SC HED UL E
SUNDAY, JUNE 29
•Vice President-Elect and Governor-Elect Training
•Vice President and Governor Training
•Registration
•House of Optimism (Expo)
•First Timers Program
•Taste of St. Louis Reception
•Opening Ceremony
MONDAY, JUNE 30
Bringing Out the Best in Youth
•House of Optimism (EXPO)
•General Session
•Heritage of Optimism Brunch
•Organization and Life Skills Training
•Trivia Night
TUESDAY, JULY 1
Bringing Out the Best in Community
•House of Optimism (EXPO)
•General Session
•Organization and Life Skills Training
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves
•House of Optimism (EXPO)
•General Session
•Annual Business Meeting & Closing
•Presidents Gala & Dance
THURSDAY, JULY 3
•Club President-Elect & Lt. Governor-Elect Breakfast
•Local Attraction Tour
MISSION STATEMENT
By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
VISION STATEMENT
Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as the first volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their full potential.
VALUES STATEMENT
Optimism
Optimism is at the heart of everything we do.
We foster a shared sense of hope and resilience. We encourage positive action within ourselves and our communities and persist through difficulties with the belief we can create meaningful change, ensuring that we and those we serve can reach our fullest potential.
Respect
Through respectful interactions we value the unique contributions and inherent worth of every individual. We honor all people with dignity, compassion and care by embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, ethics and transparency in everything we do. We are accountable for our actions and follow through on our commitments. We conduct ourselves in all actions by doing what is right, even when it is difficult. We set a positive example and inspire others to follow.
Global Community
We embrace diversity, interconnectedness and shared humanity across all cultures, beliefs and borders. Our commitment to the global community encourages us to think beyond local solutions and consider the broader impact of our actions. By nurturing a spirit of cooperation and empathy, we work towards a better world together.
PURPOSES OF OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL
To develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed; to promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs; to inspire respect for the law; to promote patriotism and work for international agreement and friendship among all people; to aid and encourage the development of youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life, and the world.
THE OPTIMIST CREED
Promise Yourself-
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
Managing Editor Cheryl Brenn
Editor J. Ryne Danielson
Designer Jason Cook Editorial Office 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 Office (314) 371-6000 Fax (314) 371-6006
Email magazine@optimist.org
Generous support from the Optimist International Foundation made this publication possible.
Optimist (ISSN 1085-5017) (CPN 40032242) (USPS 808-320) is published quarterly in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer by Optimist International, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108, a non-profit and incorporated association of Optimist Clubs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Periodicals posted at St. Louis, MO, and at additional mailing offices. Digital periodicals posted online at Optimist.org.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to The Optimist, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.
© Copyright 2024
Words of Wisdom
Calendar of Events
NOVEMBER
• Optimist Junior Golf: Tournament of Champions
• World Kindness Week and Day
• Giving Tuesday
• Leadership Development Webinar
• Optimist International Board of Director’s Meeting
• Vice President Elect Retreat
• Optimist Junior Golf: Hugh Cranford All Scholastic Scholarship Application opens
• Club of the Year submissions due
• Q2 Jan/Feb/Mar
• MLK Day of Service
• International Quality of Life Month
• International Day of Education
Conversations that inspire
Choose Optimism Podcast
From tips on building new clubs and engaging current members to manifesting your optimistic “superpowers,” you don’t want to miss Shane Neuman and Theresa Jarratt’s thought-provoking podcast, Choose Optimism.
Find The Choose Optimism Podcast Here:
Choose Optimism Podcast (RSS)
Choose Optimism Podcast (Apple Podcasts)
SHANE NEUMAN
Let Grouper Cover Your Membership!
We know you value a strong and engaged Optimist community, and we know you value a good deal, too, so Optimist International wants to highlight our partnership with Grouper and get your annual membership dues covered!
Grouper provides benefits to Optimist members aged 65+ for participating in group activities. Maintaining social connections through group activities — like volunteering or mentoring or having lunch with friends or fellow Optimists — is especially important for older adults, who have above-average risks of social isolation.
For Optimist members with an eligible Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan, annual dues are covered. Once you enroll and your eligibility is confirmed, Grouper will send you a check. Check your eligibility and enroll here it only takes a few seconds!
From club meetings and events to supporting youth and community development, Optimist activities keep our members connected and promote a healthier, more fulfilling life. We know you value community and camaraderie. Let Grouper support those values.
QUESTIONS?
Visit our FAQ page for more information. For assistance, please call Grouper at (833) 519-1072 or email Grouper at optimist@hellogrouper.com
We hope you take advantage of this opportunity, and we look forward to seeing you at upcoming events!
Optimist International Launches OWLS Program to Support School Children
OWLS (Optimists Working for Learning Success) is Optimist International’s newest signature program. Designed to support elementary school-aged students across the United States and internationally, OWLS will focus on helping clubs develop partnerships with local schools and classrooms to provide students with the resources they need to thrive.
First introduced by Past President Bob McFadyen at the 2023 International Convention, Optimist Clubs participating in the OWLS program will provide children with nutrition, clothing, school supplies, hygiene products, and tutoring assistance.
The program is currently being rolled out in phases to ensure sustainability. The first phase is a voluntary pilot program that will run through the end of 2024. During this phase, Optimist Clubs will be able to opt-in to participate in the program and help develop resources for other clubs.
The second phase of the program will be a national rollout that will take place in 2025. During this phase, the program will be rolled out to all Optimist Clubs in the United States and Canada.
The third phase of the program will be an international rollout that will take place in 2025-2026. During this phase, the program will be rolled out to Optimist Clubs around the world.
Benefits of the OWLS Program
The OWLS program is designed to benefit both students and Optimist Clubs. For students, it means increased access to resources, boosted self-esteem and social skills, and improved academic performance.
For Optimist Clubs, participation in the program will bring increased community engagement and a more focused club identity. Potential new members will learn about Optimism through the program and may
join a club because they want to be part of the OWLS program’s success.
For example, during the pilot program, the Dor-Wood Optimist Club in Kettering, Ohio, has exemplified how Optimist Clubs can effectively engage with local schools and youth organizations. Their success stems from a multi-faceted approach: actively recruiting members within the education sector, fostering continuous communication with school leadership to understand their needs, collaborating with schools on club projects, and recognizing outstanding students and leaders.
This strategy has not only strengthened the club's relationship with the schools, members say, but
A police officer talks to a Galveston Noon Chicken Club at Crenshaw Elementary and Middle School as part of an anti-drug and anti-bullying program.
also ensured a steady supply of new volunteers and resources, creating a sustainable partnership that benefits both the club and the community.
Other clubs have rolled longstanding anti-drug and anti-bullying campaigns into the OWLS program. The Galveston Noon Optimist Club has sponsored CHICKEN (Cool, Honest, Intelligent, Clear-headed, Kind, Energetic and Not into drugs) clubs to local schools since 1986. The program is designed to help kids "Just Say No" to drugs through positive peer pressure, and Galveston Noon is recognized as an antidrug leader for Galveston youth.
Other clubs are already partnering with local grocery stores and collaborating with local schools to host food donation drives as part of a backpack weekend food program. Programs like these are at the heart of OWLS, helping to not only alleviate hunger but also strengthening the bond between Optimist clubs, schools, and their local communities.
Likewise, student-of-the-month programs to recognize the positive contributions of young people can inspire a culture of optimism and achievement among students, boosting confidence and building a club’s reputation as a champion of youth in its community.
How Optimist Clubs Can Get Involved
There are several ways that Optimist Clubs can get involved in the OWLS program:
• Research and Preparation: Clubs can research the needs of their local schools and develop a list of volunteer opportunities that they can offer.
• Initial Outreach: Clubs can reach out to school principals and teachers to build relationships and discuss how they can help.
• Implementation and Project Data Collection: Clubs can launch their first activity or project and collect data on its impact.
• Promotion and Documentation: Clubs can share their success stories on social media and in newsletters.
• Maintain the Relationship: Clubs can keep in regular contact with schools and offer continued support.
The OWLS program is easy to implement and can be tailored to the needs of each community. Plus, it is a valuable opportunity for Optimist Clubs to make a difference in the lives of children. By providing students with the resources they need to succeed, Optimist Clubs can help them reach their full potential.
It's essential for your club to fill out the OWLS Community Engagement Form for every school-related project completed since October 1, 2023. This data is important for Optimist International and plays a key role in ensuring we can sustain and grow these valuable programs, allowing us to continue making a meaningful impact in our communities!
Participants and volunteers pose for a photo during the 2023 TriStar Basketball Pass, Shoot and Dribble contest. Dor-Wood Optimist Club partnered with Fairmont High School's Athletic Department to make the program possible.
Young Golfers Shine at 2024 Optimist International Tournament of Champions
The Optimist International Tournament of Champions brought together 125 talented young golfers from 20 countries on November 2-3. Held at the renowned Mission Inn Resort, the tournament showcased the golfers’ exceptional skill and sportsmanship across multiple age divisions for boys and girls, including an exceptional 65 scored by one golfer in the Boys 11-13 division.
"We are thrilled to witness the dedication and passion of these young athletes," said Optimist International President Jan Oord Gaves. "This tournament embodies the Optimist mission of providing opportunities for youth to develop their potential. We are proud to provide a platform for them to compete and grow."
The event was supported by Junior Players Golf Academy and the Optimist International Foundation, plus a pending $2,500 sponsorship from Lake County, Florida, and staffed by 19 volunteers, including President Jan and First Gentleman Ron, as well as Optimist International Foundation President Ben DeRemer.
The tournament offered more than just trophies. Winners in the Boys 16-18 and Girls 1418 divisions earned exemption spots at the prestigious Junior Orange Bowl tournament in December. Additionally, the top five players (plus ties) in each division secured their spots in the 2025 Optimist International Junior Golf Championship.
The Optimist International Tournament of Champions will return to Mission Inn Resort on November 1-2, 2025, promising another exciting chapter in junior golf.
RESULTS
Boys 16-18 Division
1st Place – Joshua Hess (Switzerland) 72-70 - 142
2nd Place – Joey Iaciofano (Florida) 79-67 - 146
3rd Place – Nutthachai Khamkhokgruad (Thailand) 74-73 - 147
Boys 14-15 Division
1st Place – Ryo Arakawa (Japan)
69-77 - 146
2nd Place – Eduardo Marin (Nicaragua) 75-71- 146
3rd Place – Juan Antonio Aliseda Alvarado (Mexico) 76-73- 146
Boys 11-13 Division
1st Place – Pablo Del Grosso (Panama) 65-70 - 13
2nd Place – Theodoros Kalionchiz (Florida)) 71-67 - 138
3rd Place – Hans Huang (Germany) 69-70 - 139
Girls 11-13 Division
1st Place – Si Ge (Eva) Wang (Hong Kong) 69-70 – 139
2nd Place – Olivia Hartman (Florida) 70-75 – 145
3rd Place – Kaori Arce (Peru) 75-71 - 146
Girls 14-18 Division
1st place – Ayana Hiranaka (Japan)
68-68 - 136
2nd place – Angelina Pacheco (Florida) 66-72 - 138
3rd Place – Chanelle Mwangi (Kenya) 69-71 - 140
SS Optimism 2024–2025 Cruise Special
Get ready to embark on an exciting journey aboard the S.S. Optimism! This 365-day (metaphorical) cruise, captained by President Jan, promises a year of fun, growth, and rewards. As we “travel” to various ports, all Clubs will have the chance to win big – every new member a Club gains will earn them an entry into a $250 quarterly drawing!
Terms and Conditions
• Clubs must “Opt-in” to participate. Clubs remain enrolled in the incentive for the full Optimist year once they have opted in. The Club can opt in to join the incentive cruise at any time.
• There will be a drawing at the end of each quarter.
• Club’s name is entered into drawing for every member past their NET Oct. 1, 2024, roster. Example: Club starts Oct. 1 with 50 members. On December 31, the Club has 57 members. Club will have seven entries into the drawing for this quarter.
• Clubs’ names can be drawn more than once. If Clubs are working hard to retain members and bring in new members, they should have more chances to win.
• Each Quarter starts new. The Club baseline remains at their Oct. 1, 2024, roster. This should encourage Clubs to retain members.
• The following, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarter ports of call will be at the end of each quarter. Example: Same Club Oct. 1 Roster was 50, March 31 roster is 53. Three entries into drawing.
• 1st Quarter: One drawing for $250.00
• 2nd Quarter: Two drawings for $250.00 each
• 3rd Quarter: Three drawings for $250.00 each
• 4th Quarter: Four drawings for $250.00 each
CLICK HERE for terms and conditions and to opt-in to the “cruise.”
Don't Miss Out!
The S.S. Optimism sets sail in October. Have fun filling out the word search below to help you prepare!
Foundation Board Nominations
The Optimist International Foundation (OIF) is proud to be a vibrant and strong partner with Optimist International. That partnership provides funding for all OI programs and services, such as all scholarships associated with Oratorical, Essay, and CCDHH, a large portion of the JOI operations, and many other aspects of the Optimist Mission.
The Board plays a pivotal role in leading the OIF endeavor. The Board is made up of Optimist Members that have been elected by the donors to serve. So, it truly is “Your Optimist International Foundation."
We are approaching the deadline of Dec. 1, 2024, for nominations. The individual elected will serve four (4) years, beginning Oct. 1, 2025. There are several qualifications, but the key ones are:
• Have served as a District Foundation Representative
• Be a Member of an Optimist Club in good standing
• Be a financial supporter within his/her means for the last five years, at the President Club Member level
• Be eligible to vote in the OIF election (contributed at least Dime-A-Day level the prior Optimist year)
• Submit a letter of endorsement from a Past Governor in your primary District
If you know of someone that might be interested or have questions, please have them contact me, Craig Boring, OIF Executive Director, at the following:
Email: craig.boring@oifoundation.org Office line: 314-881-1340
There is a form to fill out, which must be received in the office by 5 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2024.
Thank You,
Craig Boring Executive Director
Optimist International Foundation 314-881-1340
Thank you, Superheroes!
On behalf of Optimist International Foundation Immediate Past President, Teri Davis, we would like to thank you for making the 2023-2024 year for OIF a huge success as we continued to work diligently to support the Optimist Mission. Donors, volunteers, District Foundation Representatives (DFRs), and many more supported the OIF cause so more children and communities could benefit.
Our sincere congratulations to those that reached the Distinguished and Outstanding Level for the year. And our heartfelt thank you to all the DFRs, that made 2023-2024 very special. Those amazing individuals carried forward President Teri’s theme, “Be A Superhero” assisting the OIF to reach new levels of success.
First, we would like to recognize the top DFR who reached Outstanding Level:
• Nancy Mason, STX WAY TO GO NANCY!
• Debra Davis, NYNE
• Mike Novak, INDS
• Nancy Mason, STX
• Joanne Ganske, SWIS
• Barbar Grizzard, CAPVA
• Debra Berry, MI
• Jim Crowl, NMWTX
• Cathy Hicks, PC
• Kevin Bush, GATEway
• Laura Allen, SC
• Jennifer Kendo, OH
• Sherrie Cook, AL-MS
• Sandy Williams, AZ
• Jim Gasperlin, DMM
• Peggy Ingle, TA
• Sandi Cox, WMO
• Tom Lloyd, IA
• Scott Kaplan, NFL
• Troy Dostal, WINUM
Thank you and congratulations to each of those very deserving DFR’s.
We had so many volunteers and donors embrace President Teri’s theme, “Be A Superhero” to assist OIF reach new levels of success. Together we made a difference.
YOU ARE ALL SUPERHEROS!
Club Grant Program
What is the Club Grant Program?
Any Adult Club served by OIF is eligible to apply for a grant for a NEW project of the Club. The requested amount can range between $250 - $1,000.
The Details:
The project must start and finish between April 2025 and March 2026.
Grants to Clubs will be matching grants, with Clubs expected to show plans for matching the money and reporting the results.
Grants are for one year only.
Club dues must be current.
Clubs might consider using the Pass Through Program to obtain donations from local businesses and Foundations.
Applications must have been RECEIVED in the St. Louis office. Do NOT send to PO Box!
May 16, 2025 Winners will be notified.
Contact the Foundation office at 800.500.8130 or visit oifoundation.org for more information.
