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MISSION STATEMENT
By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
VISION STATEMENT
Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as the premier volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their full potential.
CORE VALUES
Optimism
Optimism is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a shared sense of hope and resilience. We encourage positive action within ourselves and our communities and persist through difficulties with the belief we can create meaningful change, ensuring that we and those we serve can reach our fullest potential.
Respect
Through respectful interactions we value the unique contributions and inherent worth of every individual. We honor all people with dignity, compassion and care by embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, ethics and transparency in everything we do. We are accountable for our actions and follow through on our commitments. We conduct ourselves in all actions by doing what is right, even when it is difficult. We set a positive example and inspire others to follow.
Global Community
We embrace diversity, interconnectedness and shared humanity across all cultures, beliefs and borders. Our commitment to the global community encourages us to think beyond local solutions and consider the broader impact of our actions. By nurturing a spirit of cooperation and empathy, we work towards a better world together.
PURPOSES OF OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL
To develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed; to promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs; to inspire respect for the law; to promote patriotism and work for international agreement and friendship among all people; to aid and encourage the development of youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life, and the world.
THE OPTIMIST CREED
Promise Yourself-
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
Features
Optimist
The Official Publication of Optimist International
Managing Editor Cheryl Brenn
Editor J. Ryne Danielson
Designer Jason Cook
Editorial Office 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108
Office (314) 371-6000 Fax (314) 371-6006
Email magazine@optimist.org
Generous support from the Optimist International Foundation made this publication possible.
On the Cover
St. Louis Union Station Hotel. The location of the 2025 Optimist International Convention.
Optimist (ISSN 1085-5017) (CPN 40032242) (USPS 808-320) is published quarterly in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer by Optimist International, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108, a non-profit and incorporated association of Optimist Clubs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Periodicals posted at St. Louis, MO, and at additional mailing offices. Digital periodicals posted online at Optimist.org.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to The Optimist, 4494 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.
“One Love, one heart… Let’s get together and feel all right” – Bob Marley
Why I like this quote: We have just returned from the Caribbean District Convention, so these words from Bob Marley are fresh in my mind. The words “one love, one heart” ring true for me always when gathering with fellow Optimists, anywhere, anytime. Throughout this Optimist year I have had the privilege of visiting many Optimists at Club events, area gatherings or District conferences. Whether a small gathering or attendance numbering in the thousands, the optimism shines through one Love, one heart! Many of you have heard me say, Optimists are Optimists wherever you go. Always. Wherever, whenever, feel that loving, supportive heart from your fellow Optimists.It was wonderful to get together with so many of you in St. Louis for our Annual Optimist International Convention. I believe all of us felt it in the beautiful Union Station, sing it with me, “One Love, one heart … Let’s get together and feel all right!” - Jan Oord Graves
"Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much." – Helen Keller
Why I like this quote: Helen Keller’s words perfectly capture the spirit I witnessed at our International Convention last month in St. Louis. Seeing members from across the globe unite with a shared purpose was a powerful reminder of our collective strength. Each of us brings a unique spark, but when we gather, those sparks ignite a ame of hope and positive action that can truly light up the world. As we return to our home clubs, I hope we all carry that feeling of fellowship with us. The energy and ideas shared in St. Louis are the fuel for the incredible work we will accomplish together over the next year. It’s a wonderful testament to the fact that our greatest achievements are always a shared success. - Cheryl Brenn
Calendar of Events
A look at what’s coming up for Optimist International
SEPTEMBER
• Celebrate Community
• International Literacy Day
• National Day of Encouragement
• Positive Thinking Day
OCTOBER
• Optimist New Year
• Q1 Oct/Nov/Dec
NOVEMBER
• Optimist Junior Golf: Tournament of Champions
• Optimist International Board of Director’s Meeting
• World Kindness Day
• Giving Tuesday
DECEMBER
• Junior Golf: Hugh Cranford All Scholastic Scholarship Application Opens
• Club of the Year submissions due
CLICK HERE to see the calendar of upcoming events on the website
Upcoming Webinars
Monday, September 8, 7:00-8:00 p.m. CDT PDP (Personal Development Program) Revamped! Join members of the 2024-2025 Leadership Development Committee as they present the all new Professional Development Program (PDP), which is now fully focused on YOU growing both personally and professionally! Presented by Kelly Chism, Dan Mills, Heather Myers, Paula Reyling, and Karen Tellinghuisen. Click here to register
Build-A-Bear Service Project
by Blythe Dorrian Communications Coordinator
Optimist International Club Members participated in two service projects at the 107th annual Convention this summer in St. Louis. President Jan Oord Graves chose BuildA-Bear to be the first project. Members celebrated the Heart Ceremony, which is an interactive event where club members warm a stuffed heart with their hands and make a wish that is placed inside the bear. It is a tradition rooted in the company’s mission to “add a little more heart to life” by inspiring kids and families to make special memories and spread kindness. This heart brings positive characteristics and feelings, such as strength and good luck. After the bears were ready, they were packed up in carriers to be donated to the Ronald McDonald House and a local safe house in St. Louis. Any of the remaining bears were purchased, and members took them home as a memento of the event.
President Jan and First Gentleman Ron picking up their bears and participating in a special Build-A-Bear Heart Ceremony.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of St. Louis, which, like its counterparts across the country, provides a home-away-from-home and vital support services to families of seriously ill or injured children receiving medical care. The first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia in 1974. There are now over 385 Ronald McDonald House programs worldwide, which is part of RMHC’s larger global network of more than 1,000 programs in over 60 countries. These programs include Ronald McDonald Houses, Family Rooms, and Care Mobiles, all dedicated to supporting families with sick children. Families are able to stay in comfortable, private rooms at a very low cost, or no cost at all. They are able to find a sense of community with others facing similar challenges, offering emotional support to each other during their child’s medical journey.
Participating attendees named the bears that were and are being donated to the local safe house and St. Louis Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).
East Missouri Governor Jean Naeger in line to pick up her Build-A-Bear.
Past International President Patsy Garner giving a very deserving hug to one of her donated bears for the Build-A-Bear service project.
Optimist International 107th Annual Convention
Gateway to Optimism: Highlights from the 2025 International Convention
This summer, Optimists from around the world gathered for the 107th International Convention in St. Louis, Missouri — home of Optimist International headquarters. The historic St. Louis Union Station provided a stunning backdrop for a week filled with inspiration, education and fellowship. Attendees were treated to a powerful lineup of keynote speakers who embodied the themes of the convention and participated in a diverse range of workshops and training sessions, gaining practical skills to take back to their Clubs.
From the vibrant "Taste of St. Louis" reception and spectacular Opening Ceremony to the powerful service projects and elegant President's Gala, the 2025 Convention was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. The ideas shared, the friendships forged, and the inspiration gained in St. Louis will create a ripple effect of positive change in communities far and wide. We hope you will carry this optimistic energy forward and join us next summer in Jacksonville, Florida!
1. President Jan Oord Graves and First Gentleman Ron cut the ribbon to open the convention.
2. Junior Optimist International President Carter Sinclair delivers his inspiring remarks.
3. Auctioneer Shane Neuman from the Optimist Club of Uptown-Great Falls, Montana raised a little over $6,200 for the JOI Summit.
4. Keynote Speaker and Cancer Survivor Morgan Carter-Christian presenting her remarks of resilience
Muny Kids
Since 1994, the Muny Kids and Teens have lit up stages and captured the crowd’s attention as one of the flagship youth performance groups in St. Louis. Performing at both private and public events, young performers aged nine to 14 demonstrate exceptional voice and dance talent, stage presence, dedication and discipline. They are chosen annually through an audition process in January and February. The goal of the troupe is to provide hands-on instruction and mentoring to young performers hoping to pursue a career in musical theater.
“This year’s Muny Kids troupe represents an incredible group of dedicated, passionate artists, and we can’t wait to see them shine onstage and in the community,” said Tali Allen, director of education at The Muny, according to their website. “The talent and energy of these young performers is truly inspiring, and I’m excited to welcome the 2025 Muny Kids to the Muny family!”
5. President Jan Oord Graves delivering motivational remarks. 6. Keynote Speaker and former Kansas City Chiefs Mascot Dan Meers on stage keeping everyone in stitches.
7. President Jan Oord Graves and Executive Director Cheryl Brenn on stage with Members Paras Mani Dahal, Kiran Tiwari, and Prithvi Thapa from Nepal.
8. Welcome First Timers! 9. Keynote Speaker and Muscian Bill Myers.
10. President Designate Tom Kendo delivering his dynamic remarks.
11. Past International Presidents: Front Row: Mark Weinsoff, Rebecca Butler Mona, Ronnie Dunn, Don Arnwine, Patsy Garner, Tracy Huxley, Dr. Michel Listenberger. Back Row: Ken Garner, Bill Teague, Charles Wiles, Bob McFadyen, Bob Garner, Dave Bruns.
12. Optimist International Foundation Executive Director Craig Boring and International Leadership Development Committee Chair Dan Mills.
13. Pacific Central Governor Dee Frewert checks her 50/50 tickets for the winning ticket. She won 1/2 the pot of money and took home $687!
14. Joyce Fisinger and Juan Olmos playing cornhole. Joyce said she had never played and sunk a few right in the hole. Beginner's luck.
15. Optimist International Foundation President Ben DeRemer and Optimist International President Jan Oord Graves pose with Junior Optimist International Immediate Past President Mason McSwegin, who was awarded a $2,500 JOI Past President Scholarship from the OIF at the International Convention in July.
16. Gary Addison listening attentively while collaborating with another member.
17. Past International President Spouses. Front row: Toni Garner, Kris Henderson, Sue Creswell, Penny McFadyen, Linda Teague. Second row: Wayne Dunn, Patsy Garner, Shawn Bruns, Connie Weinsoff, Ron Graves, Judy Listenberger. Back row: Ken Garner, Mike Mona, Judy Wiles.
18. Voting and participating in the discussion at the international annual business meeting is one way to have your voice heard.
21 Immediate Past International President Tracy Huxley and Board Director Michael Boles cut a rug on the dance floor.
22. Members enjoying the President's Gala.
Past
A shout out to the international leaders and volunteers that helped make the International Convention in St. Louis, Missouri, a huge success. International Convention Committee, led by Chair Immediate Past Governor Phyllis Neff, 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 Leadership Development Committees, led by Chairs Dan Mills and Linda Thompson, Credentials Committee, led by Chair Karen Monville, Governance Committee, led by Chair and Immediate Past International Foundation President Teri Davis, and the Sergeants-at-Arms for their help at every meeting and function held during the convention! .
19. President Jan Oord Graves and First Gentleman Ron getting their photo taken with Bob and Deb Floyd.
20. President Jan Oord Graves and First Gentleman share the first dance at the President's Gala.
23.
International Foundation President Deb Merritt and Robert Schiller enjoying the music at the President's Gala.
That 80's Band Members.
Monarch Jewelry Turns Sparkle Into Safety for Trafficking Survivors
by Blythe Dorrian Communications Coordinator
Volunteers turn donated jewelry into hope, raising funds, awareness, and support for survivors of sex trafficking through Monarch and Crisis Aid, a nonprofit fighting a crisis hidden in plain sight.
Monarch Jewelry began in 2011 when Kay Bach, a forprofit jewelry maker, felt compelled to use her craft for a deeper purpose.
Through a long-standing partnership with Crisis Aid International, a global nonprofit based in St. Louis, Monarch directs all proceeds to support the House of Hope, a safe home providing shelter, meals, counseling, and life-skills training.
“Back then there were less than 100 beds for trafficking survivors in the United States, and there were none in St. Louis,” said Jenny Michaud, Monarch’s Development Manager since 2013. “That was until Crisis Aid opened their home here in 2012. Monarch and Crisis Aid got together, and we’ve been partners ever since.”
Since its start, Monarch has raised over $1.5 million and recorded over 9,000 volunteer hours. More than 150 volunteers now craft jewelry, ornaments, and custom
gifts year-round.
“I’ve always been a people person, but it all boiled down to the fact that I have three daughters,” Michaud said. “Trafficking doesn’t discriminate, and it can happen to anyone. I want to do whatever I can to help other people.”
What began as a small jewelry initiative quickly grew into something more. When the pandemic hit, Monarch adapted its model, combining creative crafting with community education.
“We are now about 60% jewelry and 40% gift items,” Michaud said. “We do everything from custom ornaments to charcuterie boards, signs, and décor. A lot of times our items incorporate the jewelry so that we are reducing and reusing as well.”
Volunteers take inspiration from social media, often bringing in ideas from Pinterest to use as a model for new accessories.
Jen Haegele and Jenny Michaud work at a jewelry table together. “Not every girl needs to stay in our program,” Michaud said. "Some of them still have supportive families, but every girl needs to know that there is a group out there. We have programs and trauma therapy even on an outpatient basis if they don’t stay in one of our homes."
“ We truly want to thank you for what you [Optimist International] are doing to help youth in partnering with groups like us” – Jenny Michaud
“We use broaches and pins to make frames and ornaments,” Michaud said. “We even have bangles that we turn into pumpkins. We can take a piece of jewelry and turn it into something that isn’t.”
Each piece includes a card with a survivor’s story and a message about the cause. The jewelry is sold online, at events, and through Monarch’s “Party in a Box” kits that are hosted in living rooms like a modern Tupperware party.
“People said they have been impressed with the quality of jewelry they receive, and they are shocked that the volunteers can make all of this out of a pile of jewelry,” Michaud said.
More than just a fundraiser, Monarch is also a platform to educate the public and reach those at risk. The group speaks at events in eight states, offering resources and prevention strategies.
“Jewelry is a symbol to remind us of what we are doing,” Michaud said. “A sale is not just a sale for us, it is an opportunity for a conversation.”
Sometimes, that conversation leads to rescue. At one event, a community member reached out after hearing Monarch’s message. That led to a girl’s safe recovery.
“We have a girl who is at House of Hope right now because someone came to one of our events and got in touch with us,” Michaud said. “She is now safe at the home getting the treatment she needs.” Volunteers also spend time at the home itself, hosting meals, craft nights, and life-skills sessions for the victims who missed out on various skills while being trafficked.
“Some of these girls were trafficked during those years where they weren’t able to learn how to cook, balance a checkbook, or do basic life skills,” Michaud said. “We want to give them the love and unconditional support we know they need.”
Monarch also shares a warning. Social media, Michaud says, is one of the biggest-growing threats to youth.
“It doesn’t happen in the way I thought it did,” Michaud said. “When I grew up, it was ‘stranger danger.’ There are kids right now with mom and dad next to them. These kids are talking to who they think is another kid, but instead, it is a 50- or 60-year-old trying to lure them into situations they don’t need to be in.”
Awareness is just as critical as fundraising. They currently have two locations, one in St. Louis and one in Michigan.
“We will go speak to small and large groups to let them know that programs exist,” Michaud said. “We want them to know where to turn if they ever have a need.”
Even with growing support, demand still outweighs funding. There are more girls waiting than there are resources to help them.
“It is hard to know there are girls who need to come to our home, but there isn’t enough funding for them yet,” Michaud said. “The need is growing so much, but our community really is eager to help.”
Monarch also emphasizes the importance of partnerships in reaching youth and providing support.
“We truly want to thank you for what you [Optimist International] are doing to help youth in partnering with groups like us,” Michaud said. “Our motto is ‘Refuse to Do Nothing’. We love to work with groups who also refuse to ‘do nothing’ in our community. So many people don’t have families or support to help them get through, so organizations like Optimist International help fill in the gaps.”
Each handcrafted item, each story card, and each sale plays a role in the mission for Monarch.
“People love to sparkle, and women never need an excuse to buy jewelry,” Michaud said. “Instead of saying you bought it at a department store, you’re saying this isn’t just a necklace, this is hope.”
Donated jewelry of all kinds is turned into items at Monarch's events with more available on their website.. “We are a nonprofit,” Michaud said. “Sometimes organizations can have a hard time keeping their volunteers. We try to look at the talents of people who volunteer with us and connect them to projects that they can do to feel fulfilled.”
Welcome New Members
Since the beginning of the Optimist year in October, Optimist International has welcomed 3,876 new Members and created 23 new Clubs around the world. If you’re one of those new Members, or part of a new Club, welcome! Each of you brings valuable skills and fresh ideas to our organization, and we’re grateful for your desire to bring out the best in youth, communities, and yourselves.
Welcome to Optimist International, a community-service nonprofit committed to creating a more optimistic future through our many innovative programs. You are joining a global network of more than 50,000 Optimists who share your passion for making a difference.
We hope you enjoy your Membership! And remember, you’re not alone in your journey. Our international staff is here to answer your questions, provide marketing and communications support, and help with any issues you encounter.
Thank you for being an Optimist!
• Scholarship Programs: Optimist International sponsors several scholarship contests for students, such as the Essay Contest, Oratorical Contest, and Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. These contests provide opportunities for young people to showcase their talents and win educational scholarships. You can help organize and promote these contests in your local community and support the winners as they advance in their academic and professional careers.
• Junior Optimist International: Junior Optimist International (JOI) is the youth branch of Optimist International, which empowers students to become leaders and volunteers in their communities. JOI Clubs are typically sponsored by Optimist Clubs but operate independently, with their own officers and projects. As an Optimist Member, you can mentor and guide JOI Members and help them develop their skills and potential.
• Leadership Development: Optimist International provides various resources and opportunities for personal and leadership development. Through the Optimist Institute, you can access online courses, webinars and workshops on topics such as communication, teamwork and project management. You can also take on leadership roles at the Club, District, or International level and gain valuable experience and recognition. These are just some of the programs that Optimist International offers. We hope you also participate in our other community activities, and we look forward to seeing you at our next International Convention, scheduled for June 28-July 2, 2026 in Jacksonville, FL! Here are some
• Optimist Junior Golf: Optimist Junior Golf is one of the largest and most prestigious junior golf events in the world, attracting thousands of participants from more than 40 countries. Optimist Clubs host
qualifying tournaments for junior golfers, who can advance to the annual Optimist International Junior Golf Championship in Miami, Florida. You can get involved in this program by volunteering at local tournaments, sponsoring golfers, or playing in our parent-child tournament.
OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL YOUTH CONTESTS 2025-2026
Topic
“The Moment I Realized I Belonged
—My Definition of Community”
ORATORICAL CONTEST
Beginning in 1928, the Oratorical Contest has become the longest-running program of Optimist International. The contest is designed for young people to gain experience in public speaking and provide them with an opportunity to compete for multiple college scholarships with a pre-assigned topic.
District Scholarships:
First Place: $2,500 • Second Place: $1,500 • Third Place: $1,000 with a chance to win up to $22,500 at the World Championships level
ESSAY CONTEST
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 addition to developing skills for written expression, participants also have the opportunity to win a college scholarship!
One District Scholarship of $2,500
Topic
“The Moment I Realized I Belonged —My Definition of Community”
Topic
“How My Acts of Service Help Me Understand What My Community Means to Me”
COMMUNICATION CONTEST FOR THE DEAF & HARD OF HEARING
This contest offers an opportunity for students who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing to present their thoughts in the community, gaining skills which can only come from signing or speaking to a large audience. Patterned after the Optimist Oratorical Contest, the contest offers youth the chance to compete in speech or sign language with the chance to win a college scholarship.
One District Scholarship of $2,500
KIDS SPEAK OUT! SPEECH CONTEST
All young people can compete in the Optimist Oratorical Contest. The “Kids Speak Out” contest is a “pre-Oratorical” program that provides a more equitable competition for younger speakers.
2025 Visual Arts Contest Notecards
Now available for purchase
We're thrilled to announce that beautiful notecards featuring artwork from the Optimist International Visual Arts Contest are now available for purchase! These notecards showcase the incredible talent of young artists and their inspiring interpretations of the theme "Bringing Out the Best." Each pack includes 12 cards with unique designs and envelopes, all for just $12.
These notecards are perfect for personal use or as a thoughtful gift for fellow Optimists, friends, and family. By purchasing a set, you'll not only be supporting the artistic development of young people but also spreading the message of Optimism throughout your community!
