Oratorical Contest - A speech contest on a designated topic for kids under the age of 16. Our club contest is usually conducted in February each year, and presents a club contest award to a boy winner and girl winner. Our club winners advance to Zone, Regional, and District Final contests each competing for a $1,500 scholarship.

2009 Topic

For Me, Optimism is..."

Respect for Law Camp - Kids in the 5th & 6th grade are eligible for this special 2-day camp held on the University of Southern Indiana campus in June each year. The camp is conducted by Indiana State Police troopers and other law enforcement personnel.

Essay Contest - A writing contest on a designated topic for kids under the age of 19.  The club contest is usually conducted in January or February of each year. The club winning essay is entered in the District contest, competing for scholarships.

2009 Topic

“The Power of Youth”

Communications Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH) - A communications contest for deaf and hearing impaired kids through grade 12. The club contests are usually held in May each year. The club winner advances to a District contest competing for a scholarship.

2009 Topic

"For Me, Optimist is..."

 Youth Safety Program - This program addresses safety issues relating to many popular youth activities, such as bike riding, skateboarding, in-line skating, riding the school bus, riding in automobiles and exploring the internet.   More detailed information about the Youth Safety program is available in the "International Programs Planning Guide."

The Evansville Area Optimist Clubs recognize the top 10 seniors at the local high schools during the first week of November.

An appreciation breakfast with inspiring speaker is held with the students participating in a "job shadow" in a field of interest during the remainder of the day .