District History

The Pacific Southwest District (PSWD) is one of three Southern California-based administrative units of Optimist International ©: and encompases several counties in Central and Southern California. More than 70 individual Optimist Clubs are included in this service organization of men and women, boys and girls, dedicated to assisting youth and their families in our communities. The organization's motto, Friend of Youth, is also its raison d'etre.

Affiliated with Optimist International (District # 14), PSWD members follow a self-motivating code of conduct [Optimist Creed] as they address their Mission and Goals for making this a better world for its youth.

Meeting the needs of young people in communities worldwide, Optimist International clubs have been "Bringing Out the Best in Kids" since 1919. Optimist Clubs conduct positive service projects aimed at providing a helping hand to youth. Club members are best known in their communities for their upbeat attitudes.

By believing in young people and empowering them to be the best they can, Optimist volunteers continually make this world a better place to live.