Officially founded in 1919, the Optimist International Organization unified existing Optimist Clubs that had been organized as early as 1911. Like their successors, the first Optimists joined together to encourage a spirit of hopefulness and enthusiasm among themselves and throughout their communities.

In 1922, Optimists adopted the Optimist Creed written by Christian D. Larson. The Creed continues to reflect the basic philosophy of an Optimist member in both attitude and actions.

In 1924, Optimists adopted the motto, "Friend of the Boy". Today, the motto is "Friend of Youth", reflecting the organization's total commitment to all youth. Optimists across North America serve 6 million youth each year. Optimist Clubs and their members are making a positive impact on the lives of the youth of today and tomorrow.

PURPOSES OF AN OPTIMIST CLUB
To develop optimism as a philosophy of life, utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed.
To promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs.
To inspire respect for law.
To promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people.
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 of humankind, community life, and the world.
MISSION STATEMENT

Optimist International's mission is to foster an optimistic way of life, through a network of optimists, dedicated to the full development of their potential in order to provide ever-expanding service to youth, the community and the world.

VISION STATEMENT

Optimist International will be recognized worldwide as an organization of people committed to Optimism and self-development for the improvement of youth and community.

CODE OF ETHICS

Optimist International is a worldwide organization of men, women and youth focused on Optimism and the betterment of youth, community and the world.

All Optimists should conduct themselves in accordance with the Purposes of Optimist International and the principles of the Optimist Creed.

In light of the purposes of Optimism and the Optimist Creed, Optimists should endeavor to treat others with respect, dignity, integrity and concern.

THE OPTIMIST CREED
 
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 life and make your Optimism come true.
To think only 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.

Many have found inspiration in The Optimist Creed. In hospitals, the creed has been used to help patients recover from illness. In locker rooms, coaches have used it to motivate their players. Optimist International adopted this creed in 1922. It was originally published in 1912 in a book titled: "Your Forces and How to Use Them." The author was Christian D. Larson, a prolific writer and lecturer who believed that people have tremendous latent powers, which could be harnessed for success with the proper attitude.