The members of our club are committed to a philosophy of optimism and guided by the Optimist Creed which is contained in the section "About Optimism."  We dedicate ourselves to community service and to making Charleston a better place for all to live.  We believe that in giving of ourselves in service, our community becomes a better place.

   Our motto "Friend of Youth" indicates our main focus and "Bringing out the Best in Kids" our goal.  We sponsor academic, sports, and self improvement activities designed to give Charleston's youth a better chance to succeed in today's world.  Whether it is a scholarship to help students attend college, St. Andrews Parks and Playground or Shannon's Hope involvement, an essay or oratorical contest, West Ashley's Optimists are there supporting programs that enhance opportunities for boys and girls of all ages.

   Each year, our programs directly touch the lives of nearly 1,000 Charleston youth.  We are committed to increasing that number through both the expansion of existing and development of new programs.

   We want to thank you for reading our material, and ask that after you see all that we do, you consider joining with us to help make Charleston a better community.  Together, we can all be a "Friend of Youth" and " Bring out the Best in Kids."