This contest is open to young people under the age of 19 as of October 1st of the current Optimist International contest year (October 1 – September 30) and who have not yet completed secondary school or its equivalent.  There is no minimum age.

In addition to developing skills for written expression the top finisher in the Club Contest have the opportunity to win a college scholarship!

In 2019, a contestant sponsored by our St. Charles Club finished first in the District Essay Contest and won a $2,500 college scholarship.

How To Enter:

Interested students must contact their local Optimist Club. They need to submit an essay for the Essay Contest. To find out a point of contact, please contact our St. Charles Optimist Club or e-mail the Programs Department at programs@optimist.org.

To read the official rules, please click below.

Official_2025-26_Essay_rules

More information to follow.

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