Optimist International

Learn about this cause: Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 430443279 ✦ Saint louis, MO ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(4)

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Overview

What is Optimist International?

Optimist International is a globally-spread association, supporting approximately 2,000 Optimist Clubs worldwide. These clubs are filled with dedicated adult volunteers, united in their mission to uplift youth through service projects in their local communities. The Optimist Clubs' primary focus is to provide assistance to young people, identifying and addressing their specific needs through various programs. Optimist International's vision is to inspire hope and positivity, encouraging youth to be the best versions of themselves. With an upbeat attitude, these clubs conduct an impressive 65,000 service projects annually, serving over five million people. The organization's headquarters is located in Saint Louis, Missouri.


Official website here: www.optimist.org

Is Optimist International legitimate?

Optimist International is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(4) entity. Optimist International submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.


Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:

Executive Compensation: $292,455
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $1,160,356

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.optimist.org

What is the mission statement of Optimist International?

Optimist International, an association supporting approximately 2000 Optimist clubs worldwide, strives to instill hope and a positive outlook in youth, communities, and individuals. Their mission is to foster an environment that amplifies the best qualities in youth by engaging adult volunteers in service projects. These projects aim to uplift and offer assistance within local communities, specifically catering to the needs of young people. With an optimistic attitude, the members of Optimist clubs empower youth to reach their full potential. Each club identified the requirements of the youth in its community and implements programs to address these needs. Annually, Optimist clubs carry out approximately 65,000 service projects, benefiting over five million people globally.


Official website here: www.optimist.org

Who is the CEO of Optimist International?

Cheryl Brenn is the Former Executive Dir. (Thru 9/30/21) of Optimist International.


Official website here: www.optimist.org

What is the revenue of Optimist International?

Optimist International's revenue in 2022 was $3,593,993.


Official website here: www.optimist.org

Who are the executives of Optimist International and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Optimist International during 2022 was $45,400. There are 32 employees and 1100 volunteers at Optimist International.


Here are 13 key members and their salaries:


Benny Ellerbe (Former Executive Dir. (Thru 9/30/21))
  • Compensation: $161,207
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $21,042
Thomas Carver (Director)
  • Compensation: $114,044
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $22,217
Constance Pellock (Cfo)
  • Compensation: $110,761
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $17,048
Cheryl Brenn (Executive Director (As Of 8/9/21))
  • Compensation: $60,577
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $2,344
Patsy Garner (President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Robert Mcfadyen (President-Elect)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mark Weinsoff (Immediate Past President)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Robert Doyle (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Luc Dubois (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Carol Haynes (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Janet Lloyd (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Russ Thomas (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sandy Williams (Board Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.optimist.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Optimist International?

Optimist International's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.optimist.org

Learn more at the official website: www.optimist.org

Mission Statement of Optimist International

Optimist International, an association comprising approximately 2,000 clubs worldwide, is dedicated to supporting youth and fostering a positive environment. Their mission, in essence, is to inspire hope and instill a positive vision in the youth, communities, and individuals themselves. By doing so, they aim to bring out the best in each individual, empowering them to reach their full potential.

Optimist Clubs, consisting of adult volunteers, are the backbone of this organization. They conduct a variety of service projects in their communities, specifically tailored to meet the needs of the local youth. These projects, driven by the Optimists' upbeat attitude, are designed to provide assistance and uplift the young people, helping them to become the best versions of themselves. Each year, Optimist International spearheads around 65,000 service projects, impacting well over five million people. These projects, in essence, are the organization's unique way of making a difference in the lives of young people and instilling in them a sense of self-worth and empowerment.

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Impact




October, 2024

Optimist International creates a significant impact by focusing on youth empowerment and community enhancement. Through a network of around 2,000 Optimist Clubs worldwide, the organization facilitates positive service projects that cater to the specific needs of local young people. Volunteers engage in approximately 65,000 service projects annually, directly benefiting over five million individuals.

The core mission revolves around instilling hope and fostering a positive outlook, which inspires both youth and community members alike. By tailoring initiatives to address unique local challenges, Optimist Clubs not only uplift the lives of young people but also strengthen the fabric of their communities. This approach empowers youth, encouraging them to realize their full potential while helping to create supportive environments where they can thrive. Through these efforts, Optimist International continues to bring out the best in individuals, communities, and itself.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Optimist International. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.


Financials

This financial information is from Propublica.

Revenue
$3,593,993 (2022)
Expenses
$3,573,587 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.

  • Investment Income: $8,769
  • Program Service Revenue: $3,250,322
  • Gross Receipts: $3,593,993

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $4,024,165
  • Total Liabilities: $1,059,952
  • Net Assets: $2,964,213

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Programs

Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.

DUES AND ASSESSMENTS

Revenue

$3,250,322

Organization Details

Founding Year

1919

Principal Officer

Cheryl Brenn

Main Address

4494 LINDELL BOULEVARD, SAINT LOUIS, MO, 63108

NTEE Category

Code: Y40 - Mutual benefit

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