Bringing Optimism Since 1938

We are Calgary Optimists!

Bringing Out The Best in Calgary’s Youth, Community and Ourselves.

Upcoming events

2026 Optimist AMS&NW District 13 Convention August 6th to 8th in Calgary

Calling all Optimist Members – It’s Convention Time! Pack your bags and your enthusiasm—because the 2026 AMS&NW District Convention is coming to Calgary, and it’s more than just a meeting……

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2026 Optimist Clubs of Calgary Family Day in the Park Saturday June 6th

Attention all Calgarians! Looking for something to do with your family? Get ready…

Event details

2026 Southern Alberta Optimist Pre-Qualifier Junior Golf 18 Hole Tournament Monday July 13th

Attention All Junior Golfers! Are you under 18 years of age and love golf? If so, here is an opportunity for you! …

Event details

Introduction to Tournament Golf for Juniors Ages 5 to 10 Monday July 20th

Calling All Junior Golfers—Your First Big Swing Awaits! Is your child between the ages of 5 and 10 and just starting to learn the art of golf? …

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Youth programs

We actively fundraise to help develop and provide programs in 4 main areas:

Education

Skills development, scholarships, the fine arts, public speaking and essay writing.

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Pro-D

Professional development programs - Optimist Institute and Personal growth & involvement

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Sports

Junior curling, junior golf tournaments and Canadian ADaptive Snowsports (CADS).

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Community

Local programs and events related to skills development, picnics and family days.

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The Creed We Live By...

Promise Yourself...

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

About us

The Optimist Club of Calgary was chartered with Optimist International in 1938. For over 80 years we have sponsored deserving youth in the Calgary area.

We assist a variety of youth programs from music and fine arts to athletics, business, community and educational programs while also providing bursaries, grants and scholarships.

Ways to participate

Join the club and discover what Optimism can do and how you can give back, have fun, build lifelong friendships, and fulfill a purpose.

Join our Club

Don't have time to join the club but still want to support us?

Become a Friend of Optimist

Only want to make a donation? We are a registered non-profit and are grateful for your contribution. While the club cannot give tax receipts, donations $25 and over to the CCOF do get CRA tax receipts.

Make a Donation

Need financial support?

We actively raise and award funds to support local youth-based programs and initiatives. If your group or organization needs financial support you can apply for our optimist charitable donation grant.

Apply for a grant

Optimist International is recognized worldwide as the premier volunteer organization that values all youth and helps them develop to their full potential.

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