Two charter (i.e., original) members of the Optimist Club of Greater Vienna, one a service station owner/operator and the other the owner of a plumbing business, as a part of their estates made donations to the Club. Both believed strongly in providing a helping hand to youth who choose a trade rather than a profession for an occupation. Therefore, each bequest stipulated that the funds were to be used to continue this effort through annual scholarships awarded by the Optimist Club of Greater Vienna.

The scholarships ranging up to $1,500 - $3,000 are available to any young person in the Greater Vienna area who wants to pursue training for a vocation/trade. In the past, scholarships have been awarded to young men and women seeking post-high school training in auto engine repair, auto body repair, diesel mechanics and cosmetology.

Scholarship candidates must submit an application (request through info@optimistclubofgreatervienna.org) with a recommendation from a teacher or other mentor. Typically, scholarships are awarded at the end of the school year, but applications may be submitted at any time.