Optimist Club of Quincy Programs & Events for Youth

Tom Eickelschulte Memorial Scholarship

Purpose:
To help high school seniors pursue education. The scholarship honors long-time Optimist member Tom Eickelschulte who believed young people need a quality education to succeed in life.

Awards: One $1,500 scholarship for a student going to a four-year college and one $1,500 scholarship to a student going to a two-year college or trade school. 

Eligibility:
     - Any student in good standing and attending Quincy Area Vocational & Technical Center

Operation Innovation

Purpose:
To help local teachers facing budget restraints bring innovative projects into the classroom to benefit their students 

Awards:
Every month, the Optimist Club gives $125 each to one public school and one parochial school classroom

How to Apply:
Teachers can get an application from their school's principal

Optimist Golf

Event:
Optimist International Junior Golf Qualifier   

Date:
May 2, 2026

Location:
Westview Golf Course in Quincy, IL

Eligibility:
Boys and girls, ages 11 - 18

Awards:
Qualified winners advance to regional qualifier in Decatur, IL in June