Optimist International Foundation

05/18/2026

JOIful Giving is all about coming together to make a real impact, and we’re not done yet. We have goals we’re working toward, and we truly believe we can reach them together!

Every donation, every share, and every act of support moves us closer. This is our chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Let's be the change!

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

04/27/2026

Today is the day!

We’re kicking off JOIful Giving, our annual campaign to fuel something truly special. Every bit of support helps us benefit JOI Summit in July. It's going to be an unforgettable experience for all of our participants. This isn’t just about giving either. Together, we can lift each other up and build something bigger!

The link to donate will be below.
https://www.oifoundation.org/donate.cfm

04/24/2026

https://youtu.be/RU9tVJsHkiI
Our JOIful Giving kicks off Monday the 27th! Every donation you make helps bring the JOI Summit to life this July. Every year, our program fuels connection, growth, and provides our youth with unforgettable moments.

Let’s come together, give with purpose, and make this year’s summit bigger and brighter than ever. Mark your calendars and spread the word. Let’s make it JOIful!

OIF Board JOIful Giving Campaign Message

04/01/2026

Happy April Fool’s Day from the Optimist International Foundation!
We like to keep a good sense of humor about the work we do, but one thing is no joke: the impact of our service.

Why did the volunteer bring a ladder?
-To help the community rise to the occasion.

Thank you to all who turn Optimism into action every day. We appreciate you all more than words can say!

03/17/2026

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Optimist International Foundation! 🍀
Today we’re celebrating all things green, lucky, and joyful. St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about wearing green, it's a celebration of heritage and community.

- St. Patrick wasn’t actually Irish. He was born in Britain and later brought Christianity to Ireland.
- The original color of St. Patrick’s Day was blue, not green! Green became popular because of Ireland’s nickname, “The Emerald Isle.”
-The first St. Patrick’s Day parade wasn’t in Ireland. It was held in the United States in 1737!

We hope your day is filled with good fortune and great moments!

03/13/2026

Governor Debra Davis, of the New York-New England District, presented the check for $250 to Courtney Trawitz, Director of Events & Community Engagement, of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, NY.

Ronald was in storage for the Winter so Governor Debra was sitting in for him.

03/11/2026

Governor Lorna Gooden celebrated Optimist Day by presenting a check to the Bustamante Children's Hospital for Children.

03/11/2026

Pacific Southwest Governor, Chuck Sawyer, delivered a check on Optimist Day to the Ronald McDonald House in Los Angeles, CA.

"In attendance was Jim Oliver, DFR -Dianne Hardway, PSWD Governor Chuck Sawyer, First Lady Jennifer, and Representative from RMHC, Chris Garcia," Sawyer said.

03/09/2026

The OIF Board of Directors is proud to announce the results of the recent election!

Mr. Jim Oliver (PSW), was elected to a four-year term, beginning October 1, 2026. Jim brings many years of Optimist experience to this role, and he has served in numerous OI leadership roles with distinction. He will bring a great level of experience and leadership to the OIF Board.

Congratulations Jim!

03/02/2026

The Eastern District of Quebec North Shore donated to their Ronald McDonald House in Quebec City.

From left, Martine Boulianne, Director of Families and Operations, Claude St-Jean, Deputy Governor DEQRN, and Nathalie Bernier, Executive Director.