Programs

Youth Fishing Derby

The Club sponsors a fishing tournament open to kids up to 18 years of age.  Held at a local Calvert County farm, contestants are provided bait and the opportunity to catch the largest individual fish and the most number of fish between 8 a.m. – 12 pm.  Hot dogs and drinks are provided and a great time is had by all.  Prizes are awarded by age group at the end of the day.

Halloween Trunk or Treat

Each year, on the Sunday before Halloween, the Club hosts a trunk or treat for the community.

As part of the Optimist International (OI) program for Youth Appreciation, the Club (with the cooperation of the guidance counselors), chose 10 seniors from each school to be recognized as the ‘Outstanding Youth of Calvert County’.  These students participate in the Board of County Commissioners’ Proclamation for Youth Appreciation Week and are given a behind-the-scenes tour of the County Courthouse, the court system, the 911 Center, and the Maryland State Police Barracks in Prince Frederick. A Banquet is held each year to honor and recognize these students and their achievements with their families and friends invited to attend.

Santa Night

On the second Wednesday evening of December each year, the Club hosts Santa Night in Prince Frederick. This children’s party features crafts including ornament making, snacks, Christmas music, and a visit with Santa.

Each year an Essay Contest open to all students in Calvert County under the age of 19 is sponsored.  The subject of the essay is determined by Optimist International.  The deadline for submission of Club essay entries is February 1^st.  At the Club level prizes are awarded to the 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place winners of each age group.  The winner of the high school division moves on to the Maryland South Delaware Optimist District competition, where a $2,500 scholarship is awarded to the winner. 

Oratorical Contest
The contest is designed for youth to gain experience in public speaking and provide them with the opportunity to compete for a college scholarship.  The contest is open to students under age 19 who have not yet graduated from high school or the equivalent; however, the Calvert Club has traditionally held this contest for middle and high school students. The Calvert Club’s contest is traditionally held in March of each year.

Interested students prepare a 4 to 5-minute speech on the pre-assigned topic to be presented at the Optimist Club’s contest.  The speeches are judged at the Club level with monetary and medallion awards for 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place; at the Zone level with medallion awards for 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place; and then at the District level 1^st place winners receive a $2,500 scholarship.

All youth and community activities are supported by the sale of Christmas Trees and Wreaths.

 Career and Technology Education Achievement Awards