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Youth Programs

Children at Risk Program

An education program on the Juvenile Court System for City fifth graders: feature curriculum based learning unit, classroom speakers and field trip to the Juvenile court to witness a mock hearing. More than 9,000 students have participated in this program.

Recognition of Elementary Youth

Each year, an elementary student is selected for recognition in the areas of Art, Courage, Fellowship, Science, Community Service and Humanities. Each student is invited to a recognition luncheon and receives a $100 savings bond, certificate of recognition and club medallion. Student's parents, teacher and school administrator are invited to the luncheon.
Excellence in Musical Accomplishments Program
Designed to recognize middle school students for their talent and contributions in music, either playing a musical instrument, singing or both.  Each student is invited to a recognition luncheon and receives a $100 savings bond, certificate of recognition and club medallion. Student's parents, teacher and school administrator are invited to the luncheon. 

Recognition of Students in
Career Technical Education Programs

Students in 12th grade are recognized for their positive achievements while enrolled in one of the ten Career-Technical Education Programs in the Lynchburg City Schools. Each student is invited to a recognition luncheon and receives a $100 savings bond, certificate of recognition and club medallion. Student's parents, teacher and school administrator are invited to the luncheon. 

Central Virginia Governor's School
Research Recognition Program

This program is designed to showcase the research abilities of talented local students attending Governor's School. Optimist Club members judge research project displays for the best visual communication. Two winners are presented with an award, $100 savings bond and club medallion.

Oratorical Contest

Geared for middle and high school students, this program encourages students to participate in a public speaking contest on a selected topic. The contest is part of the Optimist Club International's program. Two winners are selected to continue in the competition on a regional and possibly state level. Actress Julia Roberts won an Optimist Club oratorical contest during her high school years. The Lynchburg Club has had several state winners receiving the $1500 scholarship.  Click here to see what happened to a past Oratorical Contest Winner!

Optimist in Action Day

Each year on the first Saturday in June, Optimist Clubs all over the world, participate in a community service project of their choice. Since 1993, we have worked on various community projects such as clean-up of the James River Festival area, clean-up of six illegal dumpsites, clear and spruce up a new mile long section of the Blackwater Creek Parkway, promote recycling at drop-off recycling centers and assisted in promoting composting as a way to recycle.

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