Following the official publication of the final standing or results of any phase of the Awards Programs of Optimist International, Optimist members Clubs and Zones are granted 30 days to submit substantiated appeals to the District Governor who held office for the year of the award being appealed. The District Governors are then granted 30 days to submit their decisions on Club and Zone appeals to the International Office, as well as any District level awards appeals.
Any appeal submitted for financial consideration shall be decided in consultation with the Optimist staff. Issues other than financial requirements will be administered by the Governor. Appeals will be decided after review and study of all facts presented by the protesting party. The determinations reached by the staff and the Optimist International President holding office for the year of the award under appeal shall be final.