An OPTIMIST CLUB is a voluntary organization of civic-minded men and women banded together for progressive thought and action in community service. Membership, which is by invitation only, is composed of citizens drawn from business, industry, agriculture, and the professions. Members are motivated by the desire to contribute to the community from which they and their families draw daily benefits. There is no greater opportunity for participation in community affairs and service than in an Optimist club.

To develop Optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed; to promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs; to inspire respect for the law; to promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people; to aid and encourage the development of youth in the belief that the giving of one's self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life and the world.

The heart of any organization is the active participation of its members.  Here is a listing of ways to get involved:

Dor-Wood Fundraisers:
Avenue of Flags: Our largest fundraiser. Assist in flag delivery, maintenance, accounting

Golf for Kids: Another fundraiser-Assist in getting sponsors, donations, set up, accounting

Christmas Tree Lot: Our other fundraiser - Assist in lot setup, take down, working tree lot

Dor-Wood Projects:

 Essay Contests: Assist in coordination with schools, teachers,students, publicity, judging

Oratorical Contests: Assist in coordination. Schools, teachers, students, publicity, judging

Tri-Star Basketball: A Pass, shoot, dribble event, registration, set up, guide kids' events

Fishing Derby: Held at Delco Park pond. Help with poles, bait, measure, count, remove fish

Kids Day in the Park: Assist with game set up, running games, teardown, have fun with kids

Safety Village: Our oldest service project. Assist with set up & teardown. Maintenance

Alter-Fairmont Scholarships: Publicity, review applications, help select scholarship winners

Jr. Optimist Clubs: Help spread joy of service / optimism to elementary, middle,high schools

College Optimist Clubs: Help spread joy of service / optimism to local college students

Youth Appreciation: Publicity, coordinate with schools, students, for student recognitions

Board of Directors: Guide the club, serve as an officer, deciding which projects to support

Dor-Wood Bulletin: A weekly bulletin sent to all members. Pictures, assist in writing

Club Publicity: Help publicizing club events and service projects to the community

Speakers/Programs: Assist in getting speakers, programs of interest for weekly meetings

Membership Committee: Assist in recruiting and retention of club members

Kettering BackPack Program: Help transport food to the packing sites

Club Social Events: Planning for club social events such as Christmas Party

Optimist Prime: Dor-Wood's evening club. Assist in speakers, recruiting, meeting setup

Social Media: Assist with club website and social media presence

Technology: Assist in set up and maintaining of club technology and equipment

Photography: Taking pictures at club events for bulletins, publicity

Within the application below, please CHECK THE BOX of all activities that may be of interest to you.