Activities

Donate Now

The Gettysburg Optimist Club is a 501c3 organization with all donations going directly to youth organizations in the local Gettysburg Community. The Gettysburg, PA Chapter was chartered in 1958 as an affiliate of Optimist International. Since this time, the Club has been in continuous service to the Gettysburg community and its youth. Donate today to make a direct impact on Bringing out the Best in Kids.

Donate Now

Focus on Literacy

The Optimist Club of Gettysburg proudly supports community literacy programs by dedicating resources to prepare and motivate children to read. We deliver free books and literacy materials to children and families who need them most, fostering a love for reading and learning. By emphasizing the power of choice, we inspire children to become lifelong readers, planting seeds of inspiration that encourage them to follow their dreams and reach their full potential. Through our efforts, we aim to create a brighter future for every child in the community.

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Optimist Youth Basketball

The Optimist Club of Gettysburg operates the free youth basketball program open to boys and girls in grades K-6 serving more than 150 students annually. The area program emphasizes participation and fundamentals of basketball. The Optimist Basketball program runs 8 weeks from January – March. Sessions are held on Saturday mornings at the Gettysburg Middle School from 9 AM – 1 PM. The Optimist Club members select the coaches, arrange for local logistics, and supply tee shirts free of charge.

Registration To Be Announced Soon

Fundraisers

Members generously donate their time and energy to various fundraising initiatives throughout the year, all aimed at supporting local youth. These efforts include hosting the annual Gettysburg Golf Tournament at the Links of Gettysburg and organizing multiple bingo events. Additionally, members participate in the Giving Spree, a community-driven campaign to raise funds. Through their dedication and generosity, the organization has successfully raised over $30,000, which is dedicated to providing vital services and programs for the youth in the community.

Golf Tournament
Gettysburg Giving Spree
Gettysburg Giving Spree
Bingo

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Self Improvement Programs

The local high school recognizes youth who have made a significant improvement in their school performance through the STARS program, Success Through Academic Recognition. The Optimist Club of Gettysburg sponsors this quarterly program which awards students in the categories of Shining Star, Rising Star and North Star. Additionally, the Optimist Club of Gettysburg contributes and supports the Dwight D. Eisenhower Senior Self Improvement Award for students who have overcome significant obstacles to make dramatic improvement in their attendance, behavior, attitude, academic performance and community/school service. It’s the Warrior Way!

Ongoing Annual Programs

The Optimist Club supports the Gettysburg Community Theatre, Holiday Family Outreach, Gettysburg Area High School Orchestra,Optimist Olympics, Adams County Business Education Partnership, Respect for Law, Little League, and the Optimist Foundation.