The purpose of the Youth Appreciation program is to recognize youth who are making a positive contribution in their schools, community, churches, youth organizations, etc.

The Plainfield Optimist Club recognizes one boy and one girl in each of the grades six through twelve as selected by the counseling staffs at the Plainfield Community Middle School,  Plainfield High School, and St Susanna's.

Each student is recognized for their accomplishments, awards, activities, etc.  Parents and other family members are invited to a club banquet hosted in honor of the Youth Appreciation winners of the award. 

The 2025 Awards wre held on Wednesday December 10, 2025 at 6:30 pm at the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center Plainfield.

Special thanks to:

 Caterer What's Cooking Tonight

Owner Ginny Vornholt

The Locker Room

Makenzi Nyland, Owner

All the staff at the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center