The Optimist Club of Foley sponsors and funds the Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club at Foley High School. This organization/club is open for membership to all students, grades 9 - 12. The JOI Club faculty advisor at Foley High School, Ursula Thompson, and her husband, Daniel, are both active members of the Optimist Club of Foley. Membership in the JOI Club averages 60 - 70 students each year.

We, as Optimists, realize the rewarding aspects of being an Optimist is the opportunity to mentor and support the next generation. The student-led JOI Club empowers young people to serve their communities, develop leadership skills, and promote a spirit of optimism. As members of the Optimist Club, we work alongside these dedicated students on service projects, school events and local initiatives…fostering connections across generations and making a lasting impact together. In the last five years, the JOI Club has grown significantly and has helped with events in the community such as OWA’s Octoberfest, the City of Foley’s Hometown Halloween and Arbor Day events, and the local Chamber’s Balloon Festival. Supporting the Junior Optimist Club is just one way that the Optimist Club of Foley invests in the future while staying rooted in community service today.