Youth Programs
The Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club is dedicated to supporting and uplifting young people through a variety of youth programs throughout the year. We proudly host Optimist International Scholarship contests, including the Essay and Oratorical competitions, as well as the Teen Mental Wellness Student Essay contest. Additionally, we offer the Robert and Susanne Di Giulio Memorial Senior Scholarship to recognize outstanding high school seniors. Through these initiatives, we encourage personal growth, academic achievement, and leadership development—helping our youth reach their fullest potential.
2024-2025 Scholarship Contests
Optimist International sponsors three scholarship contests for students to earn money to pursue opportunities in higher education: the Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH), the Essay Contest and the Oratorical Contest. The contests are conducted at the Club level, then Zone and Regional (if necessary) and at the District level. District-level scholarships are funded by the Optimist International Foundations and awarded by Optimist International.
Oratorical Contest
Topic: “How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times”
Essay Contest
Topic: “How Optimism Has Paved My Road to Success”
🎉Spotlight on Noah Prince!🎉
Meet Noah Prince, an outstanding young leader making waves in his community! As the 1st place winner of both the 2024 Teen Mental Wellness Community Forum Essay Contest and the Southfield-Lathrup Village Optimist Club's Essay Contest, Noah’s words inspire change and spark important conversations.
Beyond his achievements in writing, Noah is dedicated to uplifting others through mentorship. As a proud member of the Youth Mentoring Program at Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, he’s committed to guiding and empowering the next generation.
Join us in celebrating Noah’s incredible accomplishments and his passion for making a difference!
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Club Gatherings
Gather every 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Mars Corporate Center Blvd., 25200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 120, Southfield, MI 48033
© 2025 Optimist Club of Southfield and Lathrup Village, Inc.
