Putting Kids First: Downtown Optimist Club

Everyone has heard of the Optimist Club, but what do they really do?  I have been a member of the Downtown Optimist Club for over 5 years now.  It is a wonderful organization, full of people who care about our community, and care about kids.  This is the motto of the Optimist Club, "Bringing Out the Best in Kids." 

Over the past 75 years, the Downtown Optimist Club has been spreading money throughout Columbia to different kids' organizations and has put back over $1 million in the community.  We have donated to organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Buddy Pack Program, Blue Thunder Track Club, Hickman Review, Boys & Girls Club, The Intersection, Columbia Wrestling Club and many more.  The goal is to fund programs that help children in our local community, whether its after-school activities, sports, or scholarships. 

The Club also sponsors the Soap Box Derby Race every year in June.  They conduct a Bicycle Safety Week and Respect for the Law contest.  They also host an essay contest and oratorical contest for students, with the winners receiving scholarships for college. 

The two main fundraisers for the club are Koeze Nut Sales and Christmas Tree lots.  I'm sure you've seen the big jar of colossal cashews or milk chocolate puddles--each one of those helped a kid in need.  And, the Christmas Tree lots are a tradition for my family, and should become one for yours, too! The main lot is always at the clubhouse, on Grand St just off Business Loop 70.  It opens the day after Thanksgiving and runs until a few days before Christmas. 

They also sell $25 & $50 gift certificates to Murry's, Shakespeare's, Jack's, and Boone Tavern with a portion of the proceeds going back to Downtown Optimists.  If you are interested in purchasing one of these, just let me know!

JK