Fort Mill Community Optimist Club

09/24/2026

🎉🏆 CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER! 🏆🎉

We are proud to celebrate our very own Mr. Vernon Heard, recipient of the FMCOC President’s Citation Award for 2025–2026!

Mr. Heard is the definition of consistent, dependable, and willing to serve. Whether the task is big or small, he shows up and gets it done!

Alongside his wife, Mrs. Kathy Heard, you’ll find him serving throughout our community, from delivering pumpkins to Head Start, recognizing Super Students, and shopping for Christmas Angels to managing our social media, assisting with budget priorities, and supporting countless other club initiatives.

Mr. Heard, thank you for serving without hesitation and leading by example. Your dedication to our club, our youth, and our community does not go unnoticed.

👏🏾 Please help us congratulate Mr. Vernon Heard on this well-deserved honor!

Service. Leadership. Community. 💙🏆

08/01/2026

FMCOC had an amazing time participating in the local Back-To-School Bash held at the American Legion in Fort Mill, SC on Saturday July 25, 2026.

Thanks everyone for your donations, volunteerism, and unwavering support ensuring the kiddos are prepared for Monday, August 3, 2026. What an awesome event! 🤩

06/13/2026

On Wednesday May 27, 2026 FMCOC had the privilege of honoring Fort Mill High School’s Marine JROTC instructors Major Gerald Ratliff and Master Gunnery Sergeant Ricky Osborne with Optimist’s Respect for Law awards.

These community minded individuals work with youth to educate them about leadership, character building, and self-discipline; prompting the youth to be productive citizens in our society.

FMCOC appreciates the establishment of a firm foundation within our youth as the Marine JROTC program helps to create community trust and instill patriotism.

Thank you both for your selfless service.

Note: FMCOC members Kathleen Rivers and Maurice Wilson presented the awards.

06/10/2026

Appreciation is extended to all who supported our academic year's projects.

04/27/2026

FMCOC proudly represented at the SC District Optimist Oratorical Contest held in Columbia, SC, on April 25, 2026, with outstanding participation from David Montero Salazar. We commend David on his hard work and impactful message. Thank you David.

04/27/2026

FMCOC demonstrated appreciation for the hard work of teachers and staff at Fort Mill's three high schools by spreading positivity, acknowledging their role in inspiring students to reach their full potential.

04/22/2026

FMCOC would like to express sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in the Tea With A Twist event held on April 11, 2026. Our guest speaker, Dr. Denise Khaalid, provided an inspiring message of "Gratitude With An Attitude!" The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. We anticipate our next annual tea event with enthusiasm.

03/29/2026

Fort Mill Community Optimist Club Oratorical Winner, David S. Montero, pictured here is the winner of both our Club Level and Zone Level competitions.

David landed 1st place on Saturday, March 28, 2026 in Clover, South Carolina. Wishing you well David as you advance to the next level.

Thank you to all the participants, parents, teachers, mentors and coaches for you support.

03/29/2026

FMCOC had a chance to highlight “Super Students” this week at the following elementary schools: Doby’s Bridge, Flint Hill, Fort Mill, Gold Hill, King’s Town, and Orchard Park.

Each student was given a framed “Super Student” certificate and gift certificates from McDonald’s, Brewsters, and Barnes & Noble‘s.

We are very proud of the recipients. Keep up the great work. 😊

Pictured below are FMCOC members (left to right): Kathy Heard and Juanita Sanders “Super Student” committee members responsible for gathering the gifts and working closely with school officials to ensure this recognition takes place.

03/29/2026