“Choose Optimism”
Our Children.
Our Community.
Our Future.
What is an Optimist? Well, simply put, optimists rescue pessimists. Optimism enhances our health, the health of our communities, and the well-being of all. Through community service projects, optimists work to bring out the best in youth, in themselves and in their communities. They are organized into “clubs” that have gatherings. They make plans in order to meet the the needs of their community. Each club is autonomous and is run by their own members. They have the flexibility to serve the youth of their area in any way they see fit. Optimists see a need and react to it!
Michigan Headlines
Celebrating the Winners of the 2024–2025 District Oratorical Contest
We are proud to announce the top three winners of the 2024–2025 Michigan District Oratorical Contest, during the Spring District Gathering, held on May 17 at Saginaw Valley State University. These outstanding students rose to the top from a pool of over 100 entrants,...
Submit Your Articles for OptiViews by June 1st
At the heart of every great community lies collaboration. It’s through our shared efforts and mutual support that we accomplish the extraordinary. As the saying goes, “Our strength grows when we work together.” This is the spirit that drives OptiViews — a platform...
Optimists Donate Pedometers to Morley Stanwood Fun Run
Students at Morley Stanwood Elementary took to the track Friday, May 9, for the school’s annual fun run, a high-energy fundraiser promoting health and community involvement, made possible in part by a donation from the Mecosta County Optimist Club…
The Governor’s 3 Under 3 – May 13, 2025
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Governor’s 3 Under 3! As we move into a season of excitement, celebration, and community-building, here’s what’s happening across the Michigan District of Optimist International:
Michigan Optimist Clubs Win International Grants for Inspiring Youth Programs
Two exceptional clubs from the Michigan District have been selected as recipients of the prestigious Optimist International Foundation Club Grant, a national recognition awarded to only 27 clubs across the organization. These grants support impactful community...
How to Submit the Club Officer-Elect Report: A Step-by-Step Guide
As the Optimist year draws to a close, clubs begin preparing for a smooth leadership transition. One of the most essential administrative tasks during this time is…
MI 2025 JOI Summit Saturday
MI JOI Summit Saturday MI JOI Summit in Farmington Hills for Middle & High School The Michigan District JOI clubs and members at the Costick Center this Saturday, May 10. This is geared toward Middle School and High School...
How To Renew Your Optimist Institute Subscription
All Optimist Institute memberships expire annually on April 30. That means starting May 1, or the first time you log in after May 1, you’ll need to renew your subscription to continue accessing the resources and training available through the Optimist Institute....
The Governor’s 3 Under 3 – April 29, 2025
Welcome back to another edition of the Governor’s 3 Under 3, where Governor Sean Mueller highlights three important topics in under three minutes.
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Be an Optimist Volunteer
Bring out the best in …
Youth:
We offer a variety of programs including Junior Optimists Clubs, Junior Golf, Scholarship Contests – to name a few!
Yourself:
Engage in leadership, fellowship, training, events and discover a sense of belonging.
Community:
Organize service projects to meet the needs in your area for local schools, parks, hospitals…making the future brighter for our kids!
Get in Touch. Get Involved.
The Michigan District is interested in hearing from you. Whether you’re a parent of a student, a teacher, a youth volunteer or even an Optimist looking for more information, please use the form below and someone from the Michigan District Optimists will contact you. Be as concise as possible in the Message area.
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