Optimist Club of North Side Indianapolis, Inc.
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Youth Projects -  "Bringing Out the Best in Kids . . ."

Opti-Park - The club maintains and operates a 10-acre community park in the Broad Ripple area of Indianapolis.

Youth In Government Day - Each November, high school students spend a day at the City-County Building to meet local government officials and learn about how Indianapolis-Marion County government operates. In April, high school students spend a day at the Statehouse meeting State officials and hearing about State government operations.

Oratorical Contest - A speech contest on a designated topic for kids under the age of 16. Our club contest is usually conducted in January each year, and presents a club contest award to a boy winner and girl winner. Our club winners advance to further contests competing for scholarships. The topic for 2006 is: "My Future Is Bright Because..."

Essay Contest - A writing contest on a designated topic for kids under the age of 19.  Our club contest is usually conducted in January each year. The club winning essay is entered in the District contest, competing for scholarships. The topic for 2006 is: "I'm Unique Because..."

Communications Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH) - A communications contest for deaf and hearing impaired kids through grade 12. Our club contest is usually held in May each year. The club winner advances to a District contest competing for a scholarship. The topic for 2006 is: "My Future Is Bright Because..."

Respect for Law Camp - Kids in the 5th & 6th grade are eligible for this special 2-day camp held on the University of Indianapolis campus in June each year. The camp is conducted by Indiana State Police troopers and other law enforcement personnel.

Always Buckle Children ("ABC") - Helping to educate the community on how children under 12 should be restrained in vehicles, especially those with passenger-side airbags.

Scholarships - each year, the club awards two $1,500 scholarships to graduating high school students, and one $1,000 scholarships to a previous scholarship recipient for continued support. The scholarships are awarded in memory of Lenny Brand, long-time club member, who championed the kid who succeeded despite obstacles.

Scout Cabin at the Indiana School for the Blind - originally built and supported by the Breakfast Optimist Club, the cabin needed extensive repairs. The Breakfast Club put out a call for help to other Optimist Clubs to join them in rebuilding the cabin. The North Side club assisted with manpower to tear-out old material, help install new materials and in painting. The North Side club paid for a new heating and cooling system for the cabin.

Community Service

Salvation Army "Tree of Lights" Campaign - North Side members conduct a mini-campaign to raise money for the Salvation Army's annual Christmas-time campaign. Originally starting as bell-ringers at a Salvation Army kettle, members determined they could raise more money by pooling their individual contributions with "matches" from friends.

Christamore House Toy Shop - North Side members "adopt" families with children and purchase clothing, toys and other items requested by the families. The Christamore House is a community center serving families on the near-Westside of Indianapolis.

Respect for Law Officer Award - this annual award honors a police officer of the Indianapolis Police Department's North District (selected by the District administration). Our recognition is designed to recognize officer who provide consistent, good policing performance with something "extra" that serves the community.

Firefighter Recognition Award - This annual award honors a firefighter or emergency medical services (EMS) provider for his/her work in public safety and preserving human life.


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