A BRIEF FOUNDATION HISTORY

Optimist International, founded in 1919, is one of the world's largest service-club organizations with 155,000 members in 4,200 Optimist Clubs all over the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.  Optimist International and its member clubs exist for the sole purpose of serving their communities.  Carrying the motto "Friend of Youth", Optimist Clubs serve more than five million young people.

Optimist International Foundation was established in 1971 exclusively for the charitable, literary or educational purposes of Optimist International.  The Foundation Board of Directors grants funds to Optimist International for the development and improvement of programs and the implementation of projects conducted by Optimist Clubs.

The Foundation has grown steadily since 1971, and now has assets of approximately $3,600,000.  The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) registered charity and all donations are tax deductible.

Optimist International Foundation of Canada was established in 1988 with its purpose being to receive and maintain funds to operate programs and activities for youth in Canada.  The Foundation is a registered Canadian charity in accordance with the rules and regulations of Revenue Canada and all donations are tax deductible.

PURPOSES

Optimist International Foundation is created and shall be operated exclusively for the charitable, literary, or educational purposes of Optimist International.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of Optimist International Foundation is to assist Optimist International by seeking, receiving and maintaining funds, real and personal property, and to hold and administer such property exclusively to support Optimist International in its charitable, literary or educational endeavors.