Since 1957, Optimist Clubs have recognized youth (typically aged 10-19) for their talents in the arts, athletics, academics, and for contributions to community. The Youth Appreciation community activity provides the perfect opportunity Optimist Clubs to recognize youth and involve them in Optimist events. Youth Appreciation is the most popular Optimist International program with more than 2,000 Clubs participating each year.

Since its official launch in 1984, The Optimist Club of Stanley Park has been one of those clubs recognizing primary school students with recognition awards and highschool students with scholarships. The scholarships offerings, two each year, are open to graduating students attending Grand River Collegiate Institute: 

• a scholarship for $750 to a student who is entering a trade, apprenticeshhip or post-secondary program 
• a Co-op award for $500 to a student who has demonstrated commitment, confidence, professionalism, positivity, respect and a strong willingness to learn in their Co-op Placement.

 PHOTO: The youth recognized in 1997 by the Optimist Club of Stanley Park under its Youth Appreciation Program.

In 2009, The Optimist Club of Stanley Park hosted- and toasted - grade 6 youth from local schools already heavily involved in the community and showing their leadership potential. The dinner was held at Grand River Collegiate and catered by GRCI students enrolled in one of its new food preparation courses. The Optimist Club also provided financial support to enhance the opportunities of this new high-school program for the students' benefit.  Photos of the celebrations.

Above photos: In 1986 Optimist Richard Luszczek, in 1994 Optimist Harold Lauber and in 2991 Optimist Mark Kerr are shown presenting Awards of Appreciation Certificates.

The Youth Appreciation events usually involved a head table and some sort of entertainment --- maybe a magician!