Official Optimist International's East Missouri District page. Serving youth & communities since 1917 When we work together, we can achieve great things.
OPTIMISM - this is the theme of Optimist International and East Missouri Optimist District (EMO) is working hard to make this year a memorable one! Let's work together to bring out the best in our youth, our communities, and ourselves! Together, we will have a great year, and not only grow our clubs and our District, but we will also grow ourselves. We will change our world!
08/05/2026
Another example of Optimists bringing out the best in our communities! The KidsFirst Optimist Club is in the Columbia, MO area.
Kelly Upham (r) of Sleep in Heavenly Peace displays a prototype of the hand-crafted beds the group provides for kids in need. KFO member Marilyn McCreary helps out. SLP’s motto is “NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUT TOWN.” Thank you for providing beds to over 400 local children Kelly.
08/05/2026
Visit oi-emo.org for details about local opportunities!
Volunteer with purpose. Grow through service. Leave a lasting impact. Every hour you give helps build stronger communities and brighter futures.
We are offering you a rewarding opportunity. Join Optimist International today because your community is waiting for you. Create something good by visiting optimist.org now.
07/22/2026
🎉🏈 HOYFL 2026 Tackle & Flag Registration is NOW OPEN! 🏈🎉
We’re excited to kick off another awesome season of Tackle and Flag football with the Hallsville Optimist Youth Football League (HOYFL)! Whether your child is a first-timer or returning for more action, we can’t wait to see them on the field this fall! 💪
📅 Season Starts: Fall 2026
📝 Registration Deadline: August 23, 2026
📍Flag is open to: Grades K - 3rd
📍Tackle is open to: Grades 4th - 6th
📲 Flag register now at: https://forms.gle/XjJ8UwHbuTuvU3jb8
📲 Tackle register now at: https://forms.gle/QKhRBwVN3Yp61Evt9
Don’t wait!!! Share this post and tag your friends so they don’t miss out. Let’s make this our best season yet! 💜💛
07/22/2026
Olivia Blair, from EMO and Twin City Area Optimist Club's Junior Optimist Society, wins position on the International Board of Directors of Junior Optimist International! Congratulations Olivia!
07/19/2026
Congratulations to Madison Pyatt on winning 2nd place at the Optimist International Championships at Doral Resort in Miami! Previously, she won the EMO qualifier tournament (right)!
07/18/2026
Excited for our District Convention at the Comfort Suites in Rolla Aug. 21-23, 2026! Reserve your hotel room by July 20th for the discounted rate. Details at oi-emo.org.
07/14/2026
Get ready for the most epic event of the year! 🎉 It only happens once a year and it's happening Aug. 21-23, 2026 in Rolla! 📍 You won't want to miss this incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and make unforgettable memories. All the registration details are at oi-emo.org, so mark your calendars and secure your spot today! 📅
07/11/2026
Another shining example of Optimist Clubs bringing out the best in their communities!
07/09/2026
So excited that the East Missouri Optimist District Convention is coming up! It will be held in Rolla Aug. 21-23, 2026. Details at oi-emo.org.
07/07/2026
Be the change!
The world doesn't change when we wait; it changes when we act. Your community needs caring people who are willing to step forward and make a difference. Become an Optimist and discover how rewarding it is to serve others while creating a brighter future for youth.
Don't wait another day. Become an Optimist and start changing lives today. Visit https://www.optimist.org/landingpage/ to find out more.