2026 Garner Optimist Essay Contest

Enter to Win $2500 for College

“How My Acts of Service Help Me Understand What My Community Means to Me”

The Garner Optimist Club is excited to offer the opportunity for local students to win cash prizes and, up to $2500 towards their college expenses.

The deadline to submit the application and essay is January 31, 2026, so don't delay!

Local students must be under 19 years of age and have permanent residence in the following ZIP codes:

27529, 27610, 27603.

Essays must be between 700-800 words and will be subject to AI screening.

To get the complete rules about the essay, click on the button below to learn more and apply!