Local Optimist clubs have worked together to support children enrichment facilities at Zoo Montana. Out of the cooperation between local Optimist clubs, the Optimist Playground was developed, complete with slides, climbing facilities, and boardwalks. Since the original creation, the playground has been upgraded by Zoo Montana using the proceeds of a major fundraiser. The new equipment meets current safety codes and can handle the increasing number of kids who visit the zoo. Local Optimist clubs continue to have a relationship with Zoo Montana to maintain and enhance areas of the playground. Historically, clubs come together to cleanup the playground annually, performing maintenance on the equipment and replace as necessary.
Boo at the Zoo: Annually, the weekend before Halloween, all local Optimist clubs hand out candy at one of the Zoo’s biggest fundraisers, Boo at the Zoo. Families with kids from the community come to the zoo to show off their best costumes and take in the sites.
EGGstravaganza: Similar to Boo at the Zoo, all local Optimist clubs hand out Easter candy to all the kids who show up at the zoo for this springtime event.
