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The Gettysburg Optimist Club is a 501c3 organization with all donations going directly to youth organizations in the local Gettysburg Community. The Gettysburg, PA Chapter was chartered in 1958 as an affiliate of Optimist International. Since this time, the Club has been in continuous service to the Gettysburg community and its youth. We are seeking men and women of all ages to join us in serving the needs of our community’s youth. Find out how to get involved by contacting us today.

Get Involved

2025 Giving Spree #85

Members

  • Enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie of individuals who get things done and who embrace a similar optimistic mindset.

  • Develop new social and working relationships with individuals from a cross section of our communities and have opportunities to develop and demonstrate leadership skills locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

  • Experience satisfaction from making a difference in lives of children as well as the surrounding communities.

  • Receive as much as they give!

Who We Are

We are local men and women who believe that the youth is the future of our city, state, and nation. We wish to give back to the community that gives so much to us!

What We Do

Our volunteer club raises and donates tens of thousands of dollars annually for local youth organizations. We support great educational programs in local schools. We also support local sports and musical initiatives, including running a two month basketball program for more than 150 youth annually. For more information about the projects organizations the Optimist Club of Gettysburg is involved with, visit service projects page.

Latest News

2026 Gettysburg Optimist Respect for Law Award Presented

June 07, 2026 For Immediate Release:

2026 Gettysburg Optimist Respect for Law Award Presented

 Press Release
Gettysburg, PA — June 07, 2026

On June 3, 2026, the Optimist Club of Gettysburg honored Kirby Scott, a retired Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent, with the 2026 Respect for Law Award. Mr. Scott dedicated 30 years to the FBI and was a distinguished recipient of the FBI Medal of Valor.

Pictured from left to right are Douglas Miller, Respect for Law Chairman; Mr. Kirby Scott, Retired FBI Special Agent; and Joe McDowell, President of the Gettysburg Optimist Club. This award recognizes Mr. Scott’s outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to serving our community.

(Photograph  by Marci Cropp)

About the Gettysburg Optimist Club

Founded in 1958, the Optimist Club of Gettysburg continues to inspire and empower young people through positive activities and educational opportunities. Our members—men and women from diverse backgrounds—are united in our mission: “To Bring Out the Best in Kids!” To learn more about our programs, activities, or membership opportunities, visit www.gettysburgoptimist.com, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OptimistClubofGettysburg, or call 717-220-3416.

Pictured from left to right are Douglas Miller, Respect for Law Chairman; Mr. Kirby Scott, Retired FBI Special Agent; and Joe McDowell, President of the Gettysburg Optimist Club.

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All Events

Optimist Social

June 17 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

BINGO

June 26 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Optimist Club Picnic

July 15 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Donate Now

The Gettysburg Optimist Club is a 501c3 organization with all donations going directly to youth organizations in the local Gettysburg Community. The Gettysburg, PA Chapter was chartered in 1958 as an affiliate of Optimist International. Since this time, the Club has been in continuous service to the Gettysburg community and its youth. Donate today to make a direct impact on Bringing out the Best in Kids.

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