Calvert Optimist Community Parks Foundation, Inc.
The Calvert Optimist Community Parks Foundation Incorporated (Foundation) was chartered by the Calvert-Prince Frederick Optimist Club in 1988 as a 501(c)(3) organization for the purpose of raising funds to establish recreational and educational programs for youth in Calvert County. As the county grew and the Department of Parks and Recreation was established, the focus of the Foundation turned to the educational programs, especially the Calvert Optimist Scholarship program.
The Foundation’s Scholarship Program begins in February of each year when students are able to submit applications. The applications are reviewed by a panel of Optimist Club members and the winners are chosen by a weighted formula. The program began in 1975 with the Club funding a $2,000 scholarship each year to a Calvert County student. As the years progressed annual awards were made and the scholarship increased until 1987 when two (2) scholarships were awarded. With the chartering of the Foundation in 1988, the Scholarship Program evolved and expanded; currently awarding three (3) annual scholarships with values of $7,000; $5,000; and $1,250.
In 2007 the Foundation designated the annual $7,000 award ‘The Knapp Scholarship’ in recognition of the Scholarship Committee Chair Leslie Knapp’s efforts and dedication to the education of the county’s youth. The $1, 250 scholarship is designated for a student who has chosen to attend a technical/ two year program of higher education. The Foundation also matches a $500 Presidential Scholarship when a Calvert County student is awarded such a grant.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Bike Safety Rodeo, Halloween Parade, Easter Egg Hunt, Fishing Tournament, Youth Appreciation Week, Calvert Shop with a Cop – Christmas, Essay Contest, Oratorical Contest, Project Graduation, Scholarship Program, Career Center Award, U.S. Presidential Community Service Scholarship, Optimist International Jr. World of Golf, Calvert Ship with a Cop – Back to School, Miss Tranquility & Lord Calvert Sponsorship, Calvert County Fair Art Contest, Hunter Safety, Junior Optimist Club, Eagle Scouts, Sea Scouts, Explorer Scouts
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Thanksgiving & Christmas Food Baskets, Project ECHO, Respect for Law, Christmas Parade, Books for Babies, Maryland Childhood Cancer Campaign, Community Bulletin Board, Tents for Charitable Activities, Medical Equipment for Loan