Impact our young generation by promoting Optimism as a philosophy of life

‍ ‍Events‍ ‍

Shop with a Cop: December 5, 2026

Respect for Law: February 2027

Bowl with a Cop: TBD

Fish with a Cop: June 5, 2027

Contests‍ ‍

Optimist International Essay Contest

2026/2027- Applications opening soon!

‍ 2025/2026- We have a winner: Praneel Pandit!

Optimist International Oratorical Contest

2026/2027 - Applications opening soon!

Congratulations Megan Goddard & Bradley Goddard!

‍ Communication contest for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing

‍ ‍2026/2027 - Applications opening soon!

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Local Scholarship

2025/2026 Yaw Scholarship Contest

2025/2026- Applications are now closed

2026- 2 winners: Atley Shaffer- Brunswick HS (1st place)

‍ ‍ Josie Ritchie- Walkersville HS (2nd place)

TESTiMONIALS

"After being faced with the hardships surrounding financing college, I was so grateful that the Optimist Club provided me an opportunity to earn a scholarship. Their selection process is thorough and fair, and I am honored to be recognized for my hard work throughout high school. I will always thank The Optimist Club of Frederick for supporting me through my journey to higher education!"- Josie

“I was selected as a 2026 recipient of the Optimist Club of Frederick’s Youth Appreciation Week Scholarship. I am so grateful for this scholarship opportunity and appreciate the financial assistance to attend college. I was able to attend one of the club’s monthly meetings to receive my award. At this meeting, I was able to meet Optimist Club members and learn about all they do for our community, specifically the youth. I enjoyed getting to meet many kind, wonderful, and supportive people and learn about their club’s community outreach. I am thankful for this opportunity and would recommend that any high school senior or junior take the time to apply.”- Atley