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.

We are now a registered and approved 501(c)3 Non-Profit

Canton Optimist Club History

Chartered June 21, 1979, 35 Members, Sponsored by Club #21275 – Smyrna, GA

1979-80 – Added Dimension Award

1981-82 – Honor Club, Linn Howell

1988 – First Hosted the Canton Christmas Parade.  City of Canton asked Canton Optimist Club to host this event.

1988-1989 – International President’s Award – Constant Growth

1988-89 – Honor Club, Dr. Edwin Swords

1989-90 – District Winner Community Projects Awards Sports Recreation

1989-Sponsored Midday Woodstock Club

1993-94 – Honor Club, Mark Robillard, Fly for Five Fourth Quarter Drive

1994- Membership Challenge Silver Medalist

1995 Sponsored Towne Lake Breakfast Club

1995-96- Excel-erate with 5

1998 – Cherokee Pickens Bike Rodeo

2000 – Governor’s Vision Award, Third Quarter Membership Award

2007- Sponsored Reinhardt College Club

2009-2010 – 365 Award

2010-2011 – 365 Award

2019 – Celebrated 40 years, City of Canton Proclamation

2020 Cherokee County School District Partner of the Year - Free Home Elementary