Optimist Club of Erie

Official Topic for 2007-2008: "Why Me? Why Not?”

Through the Optimist Oratorical Contest, young people are given the chance to develop their public speaking skills and share their viewpoints with the community. Around since the late 1920’s, the contest provides an excellent opportunity for adults to listen and hear what’s on the minds of today’s kids and teens.

The Oratorical Contest is open to students under the age of 16 as of December 31 of the 2009 – 2010 school year and who are educated in the U.S., Canada or Caribbean. Students must write their own speech and are limited to a 4-5 minute oration. Following Optimist International Oratorical Contest rules, boys and girls compete in separate contests. Scholarships of up to $1,500 are awarded to the top local district winners.

Generally, local club contests are held in March of each year, followed by the Zone and Area contests (semi-finals.) The district finals are generally held in May.