Every year, the Optimist Club holds a speech contest.  In 2004-2005, the topic was,  "My Hero is..." The speech contest is open to students under the age of 16 as of December 31.  See the website below for more information.  Generally, area Optimist clubs hold their contests in March.  I've heard that participants are usually highly polished and prepared.  Scholarships are awarded to the top speakers. 

 http://optimist.org/default.cfm?content=Members/mbrcdpa6.htm