Central Ontario District (CENON) District 47 of Optimist International
Who We Are
CENON District encompasses 48 Optimist Clubs and 7 Junior Optimist Clubs in Central Ontario. Clubs are a members of a Zone. Each Zone has an elected Lieutenant Governor. The District is led by an elected Governor for a one year term.
Theme for the year keeps our focus on our “why” – the profound principles of hope, positive vision, and optimism that underpin the Optimist mission. Strengthening Optimist International’s brand and ensuring that “optimism” is synonymous with the organization’s mission of hope and positivity.
We need to reclaim our identity and ensure that when people hear the word ‘optimist,’ they think of our organization foremost. It is about fostering a mindset of hope and empowering everyone to believed in themselves. By showcasing the transformative power of optimism as a philosophy of life, we can inspire others to join our movement.
We celebrated the 100th anniversary of Optimist Clubs in Canada in 2024. By being Optimists, together – we all share in that responsibility of serving our communities – by developing a philosophy of life, promoting our patriotism, our respect for law….and our Optimism.
Purpose of the District
The District is organized with volunteer Optimist members interested in supporting the growth, administration and service of Optimist Clubs across central Ontario.
Conferences and Training
District conferences are held quarterly, and include workshops of interest to local Optimist Club members. District conferences usually include a business meeting, workshops, luncheon with guest speaker, and social events. The annual District Convention is held in August. Check out the information about upcoming meetings.
District Convention & Annual Meeting
August 14-16, 2026 Enjoy the great Workshops, Hospitality Suite, Past Governor’s Celebration Breakfast, Board of Directors Meeting, Training Session, Governor’s evening celebration, Memorial Service, Annual General Meeting, Election for the next Governor.
Clubs are represented by delegates who participate in the election and District business. Every Club should provide an adequate delegation, equal to its voting strength, including President, President-Elect and Secretary-Treasurer. Fun events, a Governor’s Dinner and high degree of fellowship for attendees are all part of a memorable weekend.
Details on the Convention Page when finalized.
Junior Optimist International Clubs
Our District also holds conferences for all of our Junior Optimist Clubs. During these meetings, there are workshops for Junior Club members and officers, community projects and at the annual convention, an election for JOI District Governor takes place.
International Optimist Convention
The 108th Optimist International Convention with Optimists attending from around the world will meet in the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, Jackson, FL from June 28-July 1, 2026.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about the organization while connecting with fellow Optimists and learning new skills.
More details are available on our International Convention webpage.
International Theme
“Be The Change.” This year, we are asked to do more than just hope for a better future; President Tom Kendo is calling on Optimists to build it. “Be the Change” is our 2025-2026 theme, a challenge to each of us to bring new energy, embrace change, and take personal responsibility for the future of our organization.