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 approach can encompass a young person’s personal experience, the experience of their country or a more historical perspective. In additional to developing skills for written expression, participants also have the opportunity to win a college scholarship!

The guidelines require that contestants be under the age of 19 as of October 1st of the current Optimist International contest year and attending school in the United States, Canada, or the Caribbean.

 

Local Club prizes are: 1st place $500, 2nd place $250, and 3rd place $125. Club winners advance to the District contest to compete for a $2,500 college scholarship. The District-level scholarships are funded by the Optimist International Foundations.

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This year's Essay theme is "Optimism: How it Connects Us"

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Deadline for entries is February 2nd, 2024 via email to NRedhage@gmail.com. Note both essay and application should be emailed to Nell Redhage. 

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Application for 2023-2024 Optimist International Essay Contest

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