The Tri-County Optimist Club members are involved in many projects to offer support to children of all ages in our area.  The following is a list of some of our ongoing projects and recently completed projects: 

Fund Raising Events: Throughout the year we hold fund raising events to help support our local children aid organizations.  Below is a listing of some of our past year's fundraisers:

• Fall Glow Ball Tournament (October 28, 2017)
• Johnny Rockets Fundraiser (November 9, 2017)
• Film, Food & Fun Event (February 2, 2018)
• Spring Glow Ball Tournament (March 10, 2018)

Support to Local Projects with Children:

Holiday Support of Local Families:  During the holiday season and throughout the year our club adopts familites and offers support to insure that have the food, clothing and other items their children may need.  Some organizations we've assisted include:  Haven of Lake & Sumter Counties, Inc; Combat Veterans to Careers, Children's Home Society, Infant & Toddler Pantry, Hands of Mercy Everywhere...

Support local schools and education:  Our Optimists support the local children in a number of activities throughout the year.  These include:

• Judging at the Wildwood Middle and High School Science Fairs
• Essay and Oratorical Contest where students compete for prizes (scholarships) and recognition
• Career Fair at the Wildwood Middle School
• Tutoring Programs 
• The Villages High School Golf Program

Junior Golf:  Junior Golf includes over 5,000 junior golfers, ages 10 to 18 across the United States and in 30 foreign countries.  Locally, the Tri-County Optimist Club supports junior golf by supporting local tournaments and assisting at schools where Junior Golf is part of the curriculum.  

A significant number of our members volunteer at The Optimist International Tournament of Champions in the fall and at the Optimist International Junior Golf Championships at PGA National Resort and Spa in July - August.  Approximately 500 junior golfers participate in this event over a three week period.  To advance to this level, every Junior Golfer is required to participate in a District Qualifier.  This year's North Florida District Qualifier is to be held in The Villages at the Harbor Hills Country Club, Lady Lake, on Saturday, April 28, 2018.

Bicycle Safety Program:  Bicycle Safety and Skills program have been held at the Lady Lake Boys and Girls Club on two occasions.  We've also partnered with the Lady Lake Police Department for their Bike Safety session at Home Depot that involves:

• Bicycle and Helmet Safety Inspection
• Safety and Rules-of-the Road Talk by a Police Officer
• Activity Kit with Safe Riding Rules and Related Puzzles
• Bicycle Registration with the local Police Department
• Eight different Skills Challenges
• Certificates and Prizes