Past Projects: Youth
Oratorical Contest
Beginning in 1928, the Oratorical Contest has become the longest-running program of Optimist International. The contest is designed to gain experience in public speaking, perfect self-expression and self-assurance, improve communication skills, and provide youth with the opportunity to compete for a college scholarship.
Each contestant shall prepare their speech. The contestant may receive advice during the preparation of the speech and can make minor improvements in the speech at any time. Topics vary by year and are announced at the beginning of a new Optimist Year, starting October 1st.
The winners of the Club Level receive a Certificate or a Medal, and the winners of the Zone and District Levels receive a Plaque. Three Club Level winners are awarded cash prizes of $100, $75, and $50, respectively, for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. 1st and 2nd place winners continue to compete at the Zone level.
Each winner of the District level contest will also receive a scholarship for use at a college, university, or trade school only. Three winners are awarded scholarships of $2,500, $1,500, and $1,000, respectively, for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.
Essay Contest
The Essay Contest is sponsored to give young people the opportunity to express their own opinions regarding the world in which they live. The approach can encompass a young person’s personal experience, the experience of their country, or a more historical perspective. Topics vary by year and are announced at the beginning of a new Optimist Year, starting October 1st.
The students first compete at the Club level, and winners receive a Certificate and cash prizes of $100, $75, and $50, respectively, for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. The winning Club Level essay (1st place) is advancing to the District level to compete for a $2,500 college scholarship.
Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County
Back-to-School Bash
It has been twenty years since the Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County have been hosting this event for the youth of our Community. Every child who attends Back-to-School Bash receives a backpack filled with school supplies, making it easy on families getting children ready for an upcoming school year.
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County “Spreading the Holiday Cheer”
Our Club members are always looking for an opportunity to spread Holiday Cheer, and wrapping Christmas presents for youth at the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County was a perfect fit.
