2023-2024 Achievements and Awards Winners

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1. Bringing Out the Best in the Youth Award - 

Presented to the Club or JOI Club with the Best Project focused on “Bringing Out the Best” in youth. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

2. Bringing Out the Best in Our Community Award - 

Presented to an Optimist member who has demonstrated exceptional skills in "Bringing Out the Best" in their community. This individual has actively engaged with other organizations, businesses, local leaders, and the general public to establish partnerships with their Club. They may have led a group project in collaboration with one or more of these partners or raised awareness of a Club project. Overall, this Optimist member has shown a strong commitment to building relationships with others to achieve common goals and make a positive impact in their community. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

3. Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves Award - 

As Optimists, we often focus on "Bringing Out the Best" in our youth and communities. However, we must not forget the third pillar of our Mission, which involves supporting each other. This award recognizes an Optimist who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to personal growth and self-improvement, thereby inspiring others to do the same. By prioritizing their development, this individual has set an example for others to follow and has contributed to building a stronger Optimist community.  (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

4. Outstanding Member Award

This award recognizes the exceptional efforts of an East Missouri Optimist who has gone above and beyond in promoting the mission of Optimist International. Their outstanding contributions have significantly contributed to the success of their Club and are a model for others to follow. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

5. Outstanding District Member Award – 

This award is presented to the Optimist member whose unparalleled contributions have significantly advanced the mission of Bringing Out the Best at the District level. Their exceptional service to the District exemplifies the highest standard of excellence that we, as Optimists, strive to achieve. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

6. Outstanding Rookie Optimist of the Year Award – 

This award is given to the Rookie who demonstrates exceptional dedication and commitment to their Club from the start. They actively participate in Club events and quickly assume significant roles within their Club and/or District. Their enthusiasm and passion for "Bringing Out the Best in Youth, Our Community & Ourselves" is evident from the beginning. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

7. Club President of the Year Award – 

This award honors the most outstanding Club President in the East Missouri District, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership while promoting the mission of "Bringing Out the Best in Youth, Our Community & Ourselves." This individual has effectively guided their Club through various projects and has been actively involved in the East Missouri District. They maintain good standing with Optimist International and have cultivated a remarkable culture within their Club, as well as in their interactions with the community. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

8. Lieutenant Governor of the Year Award – 

This award recognizes the Lt. Governor who has gone above and beyond the basic requirements of their position by actively supporting clubs within their zone through Club visitations, Zone gatherings, and volunteering. The recipient of this award has demonstrated excellence in their role as a liaison for the East Missouri District, a mentor for emerging leaders within their zone, and a trusted advisor to the club presidents in their charge. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.) 

9. Best New Club-Project Award – 

This award is given to the Club that has successfully initiated a new community project during the Optimist year. The Club has collaborated with the community to identify an unmet need and has dedicated their energy, skills, and time to bring the project to fruition. (Nominations may come from any East Missouri Optimist member.)

10. Don Sievers Presidential Award – 

The Don Sievers Presidential Award recognizes individuals who, like Don, embody the spirit of Optimism through kindness, gentleness, and the power of building meaningful relationships. Don's impact extended far beyond his community in Jackson, Missouri, as he inspired others within the East Missouri Optimist District and Optimist International. This award is a testament to the transformative power of nurturing positivity and helping others realize their potential. The recipient of this award serves as a shining example of how simple acts of kindness and optimism can create a ripple effect that changes the world for the better. (Nominations may come from past or current East Missouri District Governors only.)

11. Ken Monschein Presidential Award – 

Ken Monschein was the true embodiment of the Optimist spirit, renowned for his prolific efforts in building a community of positivity and hope, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Ken’s truly special gift was his genuine interest in and compassion for people. Whether he was in a local pub or leading as Optimist International President, Ken had a unique talent for turning strangers into lifelong friends and fellow Optimists. The Ken Monschein Presidential Award is presented to the individual who shares Ken’s unwavering passion for connecting with others and spreading the joy of Optimism. This award serves as a reminder of the power of positivity and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities toward building a brighter future, one optimistic connection at a time. (Nominations may come from past or current East Missouri District Governors only.)