Created in 1988, Junior Optimist Octagon International (JOI) has quickly become one of the largest and most active youth service organizations in the world. JOI members represent the times well, by making their communities better - one service project at a time. With more than 16,000 members in over 650 communities, JOI members are constantly working to promote positive change in their communities. Their motto is "Kids Helping Kids." Each JOI Club is governed autonomously, with its own local leadership. By keeping that leadership local, JOI Clubs empower young people to make positive decisions to serve fellow youths and their community. By encouraging involvement and awareness of local issues, JOI Clubs cultivate the leaders of tomorrow.
JOI is recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals and offers three different age groups: Alpha Clubs (elementary), Junior Clubs (middle school) and Octagon Clubs (high school). For more information about JOI and youth volunteering opportunities, click here.
The JOI Summit is an educational and inspirational 3-day program at Saint Louis University! The Saint Louis University Center for Global Citizenship hosts events aimed at helping the SLU community view the world from a more global perspective.
You may charter a Junior Optimist International Club with only eight Junior Optimist International Members. There is a one-time enrollment fee of $50, an annual registration fee of $60 and membership dues are as follows: $8 per member per year for Alpha Clubs and $10 per member per year for Junior Optimist and Octagon Clubs. The registration and member fees are prorated depending on the month you charter the Junior Optimist International Club. Also, Junior Optimist International Clubs are only required to pay for the first 50 members.
Junior Optimist International is an all-inclusive youth organization sponsored by Optimist International. Our organization embodies the Optimist Creed, which motivated us to embrace positive values like optimist and respect for ourselves and others while engaging in community service. Our mission is to use a passion for making a difference to reach out to other people wishing to make a difference too.
The Junior Optimist International Board of Directors is responsible for all Junior Optimist International Club administration. See the current members and where they are from here.
