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                                  Youth Appreciation

In September the Optimist Clubs will recognize local youth for their efforts in community service work. Youth Appreciation Week (YAW) is the perfect opportunity for clubs to make a difference in their community and demonstrate the Optimists' commitment to young people.

During the month of August the St. Cloud Optimists seek nominations for outstanding youth from various local youth service organizations. These nominees are invited to a Youth Appreciation Breakfast and given a plaque for their efforts. This year's breakfast will be held at the Boy Scout Offices in Sept at Pinecone Rd. Sartell..

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                                        Essay Contest

The topic for the 2022-2023 school year is:

"How Does an Optimistic Mindset Change My Tomorrow?” 

Youth under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2021 (and is not enrolled as a degree-seeking student of a post-secondary institution) in the United States. Contact your local Optimist Club if a student is interested, or email The Programs Department at Programs@Optimist.org. The club deadline for entry is January 31, 2024. The Essay Contest is sponsored by Optimist International to give young people the opportunity to write about their own opinions regarding the world in which they live.  The District essay winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship.

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                                 "Kids Speak Out" Contest

Optimist International “Kids Speak Out” Club Contests
Optimist International offers Clubs a simple but spectacular way to get younger students involved in public speaking and prepare them for higher-level Oratorical competitions. This contest is open to 5th- and 6th-grade students. These contests are not backed by dollar awards but encourage students to develop speaking skills and prepare them for future Oratorical contests. Local Clubs do present 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners with medals. How To Enter: Interested students should contact their 5th or 6th grade teachers and get further information.

Oratorical Contest
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The Topic for the 2021-2022 school year is: “Staying Optimistic in Challenging Times”

Youth under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2021 (and is not enrolled as a degree-seeking student of a post-secondary institution) in the United States is qualified. There is no minimum age. Interested students submit a speech on the pre-assigned topic to their local Optimist Club. To find out the contact in your area, please e-mail the Programs Department at programs@optimist.org. The deadline to enter is determined by the sponsoring Optimist Club. All Club-level contests are typically held by late March.

Districts have the opportunity to provide a first-place scholarship of $2,500, a second-place scholarship of $1,500, and a third-place scholarship of $1,000.

Communication Contest for Deaf and Hard of Hearing

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The topic for the 2022-2023 school year is "Staying Optimistic in Challenging Times". The contest is open to young people through grade 12 in the United States who are educated in the US.  Students must submit the results of an audiogram completed no longer than 24 months prior to the date of the contest by a qualified audiologist.  Students must be certified to have an uncorrected hearing loss decibels or more, which must be supported by the audiogram in order to be eligible to compete. Students with permanent correction should compete in the Optimist International Oratorical contest. Interested students should contact their Optimist Club. To find out the contact in the area, please e-mail the programs department at programs@optimist.org.
Deadline to enter is determined by the sponsoring Club.  
The District CCDHH winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship. 
Junior World Golf Tournament

About Optimist Golf

The Optimist Junior Golf Program is an exciting and unique junior golf program for ages 10-18.

2023 Junior Golf Championship is one of the largest and well-renowned junior golf tournaments in the world. In order to play in the Championship, golfers must meet one of the qualifying methods. Contact your local St Cloud Optimist Club to get further details, or email The Programs Department at Programs@Optimist.org.  

The international competition will be at the Doral Resort and Spa Miami,   Miami, FL
Dates for 2023
July 14-19, 2023     Boys 10-11, 12-13 and Girls 10-12
July 19-24, 2023    Boys 14-15 and Girls 13-14
July 24-29, 2023     Boys 16-18 and Girls 15-18

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                         Childhood Wellness and Health

Optimist Clubs are encouraged to participate in this program by building awareness of childhood diseases, providing assistance for children and their families, and supporting research to find a cure.
Since 2000, the Optimist International Board of Directors established CCC as the organization's primary focus program.. The St. Cloud Optimists have teamed up with CentraCare in sponsoring a summer picnic for children and families receiving cancer treatment at the CentraCare Plaza in St. Cloud. The Club also contributes to Children's Cancer Research

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                                 Respect for Law Awards

Local citizens and officers who provide positive images or programs to youth regarding respect for law are given this award.  This program inspires a healthy admiration for local law enforcement officials among young people. Marge Bates is accepting nominations for this program 320-267-3590.  Awards will be presented June 15 at the Boy Scout Offices in Sartell. 

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                            Friend of Youth Awards

Awards will be presented on July 13 to individuals and businesses in our community who have made outstanding contributions to youth in our area. Contact Don Berger for an application if you want to nominate an individual you feel is worthy of this award. Call Don Berger at 320-248-0632

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                      Achievement in Education Awards

Awards will be presented on July 20 to educators and community individuals who have made outstanding contributions in educating youth in our area.  Contact Don Berger for an application if you want to nominate an individual you feel is worthy of this award.  Call Don Berger at 320-248-0632

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