“Promise Yourself” was a poem originally published by Christian D. Larson in 1912. Optimist International adopted the poem as the Optimist Creed in 1922. Optimists strive to develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed to aid and encourage the development of youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life and the world.

What Is The DTOC?
The Downtown Optimist Club of Meridian, Mississippi (DTOC) was founded in 1941 as a local chapter of Optimist International.
Over the years, the DTOC has assisted many Meridian youth programs ranging from Little League baseball, Boys & Girls Club, Boy Scouts of America, Crestwood T-Ball and Junior Golf.

What Is An Optimist?
Optimist Club members are business leaders in the local community who always on the look-out for new ways to assist youth their dreams.
DTOC is part of Optimist International, an association of more than 3,000 Optimist Clubs around the world dedicated to “Bringing Out The Best In Kids.”

How Can I Get Involved?
To become a member, just visit one of our meetings and express your interest in joining.
Better yet, download our member application, fill it out and bring it with you to a meeting. We are always looking for people who want to give back to their community and enjoy socializing with like-minded individuals.
2022 DTOC Junior Golf Program Dates Announced
The Downtown Optimist Club recently announced the 2022 Junior Golf Program Dates: The Scheduled Play…
Don E. McNair Jr. Friend Of Youth 2021 Award Presented To Dan Derrington
On Tuesday, September 7th, 2021, The Downtown Optimist Club of Meridian presented the 2021 Don E.…
DTOC Donates Funds To Stage 2 – 2021
On Tuesday, June 29th, 2021, DTOC President Trey Hannah presented a check for $1,000 to…
2021 DTOC Junior Golf Program Dates Announced
The Downtown Optimist Club recently announced the 2020 Junior Golf Program Dates: The Scheduled Play…
DTOC Supports MS Scholars Program – 2021
On Tuesday, May 18th, 2021, former DTOC President Dan Derrington presented a donation to Craig…