Oratorical Contest
Topic for 2026:
“ The Moment I Realized I Belonged--My Definition of Community"
What: 4-5 minute speech presented to the Great Falls Optimist Club; two qualified contestants will advance to the District Contest.
Awards: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners receive $2,500, $1,500, $1,000 and $500 College scholarships.
Eligibility:
- Contestants under the age of 19 as of October 1.
- Combined boy and girl contests at all levels (Club-Zone-District).
- No minimum number of contestants for Club Contests.
Supporting Documents:
Oratorical Planning Guide: Planning_Guide
Oratorical Student Application: Oratorical_Application
Essay Contest
Topic for 2026:
"How My Acts of Service Help Me Understand What My Community Means To Me”
What: Students submit a 700-800 word essay on the 2026 topic to the Great Falls Optimist Club by February 16, 2026. The winning essay is forwarded to District by February 28, 2026. District submissions are to Optimist International by April 15, 2026, and winners notified by letter between April 15 and June 1.
Awards: 1st Place Winner Receives $2,500 Scholarship
Eligibility Update:
Contestants under the age of 19 as of October 1, and have not yet graduated from high school or the equivalent.
Optimist Golf
Event:
Optimist International Junior Golf
Date:
July 15-20, 2026 - Boys 10-11, 12-13 and Girls 10-12
July 20-25, 2026 - Boys 14-15 and Girls 13-14
July 25-30, 2026 - Boys 16-18 and Girls 15-18
Location:
OI Junior Golf Championship - Trump National Doral Resort and Spa - Miami, FL
Awards:
Qualified winners have opportunity to play in International event in July in Miami, FL.
