Optimist International, with funding from the Optimist International Foundation, sponsors an essay contest with a grand prize of a $3,500 scholarship ($2,500 from Optimist International and $1,000 from The Great Ohio District) to the Ohio District winner. Boys and girls under the age of 19 are invited to submit an essay on a pre-assigned topic during the months of October, November, December, and January each year. One winner will advance to finals at the district. The Essay Contest is sponsored jointly by Centerville Noon Optimist Club and South Metro Optimist Club of Centerville to give young people the opportunity to write about their own opinions regarding the world in which we 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.
The Official 2024-2025 Optimist International Essay Contest Topic is: “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success”
Students may submit entries by completing the application/entry form. Students should pay close attention to all rules, scoring information, and penalties detailed in the application/entry form. The deadline for submission is February 1, 2025.
The top 3 essay writers will be invited to read their essays and accept their medals and prize on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 during the Centerville Noon Optimist lunch meeting at Yankee Trace Golf Club. The first place winner will also be invited to read their essay at the March dinner meeting of the South Metro Optimist Club of Centerville.
The cash prizes awarded will be:
- $500 for 1st place
- $250 for 2nd place
- $100 for 3rd place
The first place winner advances from the local club level to the district level for a chance to win a scholarship of $3500.