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