Membership
So often people ask us, “What is an Optimist Club, and what do y’all do?” How many times have you been asked? The answer is as obvious as tall cotton and as short as winter in South Georgia--“We all possess a positive outlook on life, and we are in the business of bringing out the best in kids.” The nifty thing is that we benefit as much as the kids do. It’s like winning the lottery, but it doesn’t cost as much! One of the challenges of Optimism is keeping this wonderful organization healthy and functioning to its fullest capability. For a variety of reasons, over time we lose members who cannot be with us any longer. Realizing that membership is the lifeblood of any organization, we understand the need for strong, growing Clubs. The great thing is that American people want to work on worthy causes. People want to be involved in their communities. People want to spend time with others who have a cheerful attitude, who are passionate and willing to give of their time and energies in service to their community. People want to encourage children to be the best they can be. People truly want to be asked to join!
Types of Membership
Club Member
As Members of Optimist Clubs, individuals have the opportunity to "Bring Out the Best in Kids" along with other like-minded citizens. Through Canton Optimist Club, volunteers can answer the needs of local youth by organizing meaningful service projects. If you would like to learn more about becoming a member of the Canton Optimist club, please see our Membership Brochure. $75.00/Quarter - includes your breakfast weekly
Life Member
Life Membership is an honor often bestowed by a Club on an Optimist who has shown years of dedication to the Club and the organization. Optimists can also enroll themselves in Life Membership. Through Life Membership, a one-time fee is paid and the Optimist pays lower dues for life. See the Life Member Application for additional information.
College Member
Any Optimist Member who is enrolled as a full-time college student (minimum of 12 credit hours) is eligible to have their annual dues reduced.
Friend of Optimists
Individuals can show their support of Optimist International by becoming Friends of Optimists. A Friend of Optimists may be someone who does not have an Optimist Club in their area, or they may not have time to dedicate to a local Optimist Club. Optimist Clubs can also bestow a Friend of Optimists membership on a community member who has shown great support for the Club. To learn more, check out the Friend of Optimists Brochure and read the Frequently Asked Questions. To apply for membership online, click here. $100 per year Does not include breakfast. You may attend anytime and pay for your breakfast.
If you have questions about Membership, please reach out to our Membership Chair, Michael Starosto, PC at fstarosto3@gmail.com or contact any of our members.