The Optimist International Foundation was formed in 1971 to fund the charitable, literary, and educational programs of Optimist International. The Foundation funds scholarship programs such as the Oratorical and Essay contests at the District and WorldChampion levels. It also funds the scholarships provided to winners of the Junior Golf Tournament.
The Foundation also provides services to our clubs with programs such as the "Club Grant Program" that helps clubs fund new projects in their community, and the "Pass Through Program" that allows clubs to take advantage of the 501(c)3 status of the Foundation to request grants through corporate and individual foundations to fund their various projects.
The Optimist International Foundation is a nonprofit organization that depends on contributions to provide these funds. You and your club can help through programs such as the "Dime A Day" ($36.50 per year) member program or the "$365" ($1 per day) club program. Other programs include the "President's Club" ($250 annual member gift), "The Women's Philanthropy Council" ($100 annual donation), and the Christian D. Larson Partners ($1,000 one-time gift).
All GATEway District members are encouraged to participate in the Dime A Day program, and clubs should contribute to the $365 program.
For more information, follow the link to the Optimist International Foundation: http://oifoundation.org/programs/