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Hello Optimist Friends,
The early bird registration deadline is fast approaching!
Click here, then select "Register Now" in the upper right corner, to sign up and secure discounted pricing before May 1.
The International Convention Planning Committee is hard at work creating an unforgettable experience in Jacksonville — one unlike any in our history. In celebration of President Tom Kendo’s “Be the Change” year, we’re infusing this convention with extra energy, creativity and fun to make it a truly engaging and memorable event for all.
Registration
Full Member Registration is $299 USD per person — unchanged from last year — and includes networking opportunities, keynote speaker Matt Stewart (Kansas City, MO, FOX4 News), general sessions, leadership trainings, workshops, and the House of Optimism expo.
Here’s a quick look at what's in store:
Housing
Click here to make a hotel reservation, and be sure to reach out to us at convention@optimist.org if you need assistance. As of April 21, there were still rooms available in our group block to arrive as early as June 24 and depart as late as July 5. The cut-off date to make a reservation is June 2, 2026. Keep in mind certain days within the block could fill up before then. There is no guarantee the hotel will offer the group rate for reservation requests after the cut-off date.
Lunch Made Easy
To make your convention experience even more convenient, we’re offering daily grab-and-go lunch options from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday.
Choose from three delicious food truck–style meals, available for $18 USD per person and easily added in advance during registration.
Based on your feedback, we know lunchtime can feel tight — and with limited dining options near the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, these quick, convenient meals will help you stay energized and make the most of your schedule.
Community Prize Baskets
The International Convention Committee is asking Districts and Clubs to create baskets containing goodies that will showcase their communities’ businesses and individuals. These baskets will be raffled off at the international convention this summer.
Cornhole & Curling Showdown
Get ready to bring your A-game! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just in it for the laughs, jump into the action with cornhole and curling happening throughout the convention.
Grab a partner, represent your Club or District, and join the excitement as the competition builds toward our ultimate tournament showdown. It’s all about fun, friendly rivalry, and Optimist pride — with bragging rights on the line and prizes to win!
Stay tuned for more details … and get ready to play!
Club Project Showcase
The International Convention and Community Activities Committees are teaming up to spotlight the incredible work happening across our Clubs. The Club Project Showcase will provide a dedicated space to share ideas, highlight successes, and inspire one another through impactful projects. Stay tuned for more details on how your Club can participate!
The Community Activities Committee will also be on hand to introduce the new Club Project Impact Report—a powerful tool designed to capture your Club’s impact in real time. With our NEW website landing page, featuring a live impact ticker, Clubs can now showcase their contributions before, during, and after each project — bringing your service stories to life like never before.
Attendees will have a chance to vote on the club project they like best and the clubs that get the most votes will win a complimentary registration for the 2027 Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana, next summer.
Keynote speaker Matt Stewart
Click here to read Matt's powerful story in which he shares how a life-changing cancer diagnosis – and his wife's persistence –ultimately saved his life.
Service Projects
Pinch of Hope – Spice Drive: Spices are rarely donated to food pantries, yet they can transform simple meals. Bring one or more new, sealed spices (garlic powder, cinnamon, chili powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, etc.) to help families add flavor and comfort to their meals. A small shaker can make a big difference — add a Pinch of Hope to someone’s table.
Help Families Celebrate Life’s Moments: For many families served by food pantries, birthday cakes and celebration desserts are a luxury. Help us bring joy to these special moments by donating a Celebration Cake Package.
Product will be donated to a Jacksonville-area food pantry. Suggested items include:
• Boxed cake mix
• Can of Soda (in place of eggs and oil)
• Frosting
• Candles, Sprinkles, or decorations
• Disposable cake pan
Instead of packing supplies, you may donate $15 per package, and we will purchase and assemble cake packages on your behalf. Your donation helps ensure every family has the chance to celebrate life’s milestones.
Know Before You Go Webinar
Join our “Know Before You Go” webinar on Monday, June 8, at 7 p.m. CDT to get a sneak peek at all the excitement planned for Jacksonville. From can’t-miss events to the extra fun inspired by our “Be the Change” year, you’ll learn everything you need to make the most of your convention experience.
Click here to register for the webinar
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