Optimist International is an adult's service organization with the primary goal of providing or supporting programs that are of benefit to the youth of the community. The old slogan, "FRIEND OF YOUTH", underscores the commitment to the young people of the communities in which our clubs are located.

Optimist International presently has over 3,720 clubs with over 127,900 members primarily located in the United States and Canada.

The Oswegoland club supports many local programs that are both recreational and educational in nature. Programs may be club sponsored, such as our annual Christmas Families Project, or sponsored by another group but financially assisted by the club, such as the Oswegoland youth sport teams. Our funds are also used for special projects and/or to assist youth groups.

To develop Optimism as a philosophy of life;

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 people the community and world;

To promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs;

To inspire a respect for law;

and To promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among people.