What is Toastmasters?
The Toastmasters International (TMI) organization is a non profit
organization headquartered in California, USA. Started in 1924, the Toastmasters
mission has been to improve its members communication and leadership skills
through a proven approach that focuses on self development and self confidence
in public speaking. (For further information, refer to Toastmasters
International )
Where does
the name Toastmasters come from?
The name 'Toastmaster' is a holdover from the
founding of the organization, when one of the main types of speaking in
public was speaking after dinner, known as toastmastering.
Everyone is afraid of speaking in public. You are no different. Remember that every member is there because he or she realized that they needed help in speaking in front of an audience. You will be surprised how supportive a Toastmasters club really is. You already know that communication and leadership skills are essential in both business and home life environments. You have taken the first step by accessing our website. (For a more complete answer, refer to Why Join )
Our club is one of several in the Oakville area. All clubs offer the same basic structure as laid out in its charter by Toastmasters International. However, there are variances in terms of location, timing of meetings, meeting structure, seniority of members, etc. You are best advised to sample several clubs to determine which is the most suitable for you. (Refer to Area Clubs for times, locations, and contacts)
We meet every week during the regular September to June season. Time and location can change. (Please refer to the section When and Where for exact details)
A typical meeting consists of 4 major segments. The chairperson conducts the Opening session (including introduction of officers & guests, Table Topics, Toast and Point of View). This is then followed by the Business session (minutes, officer reports, and practice in parliament-ary procedure). After the recess, the Toastmaster is in charge of the Prepared Speech portion including the award presentation, while the General Evaluator conducts the Evaluation segment. (For further information, refer to Typical Meeting and/or Meeting Schematic )
Membership fees are based on room rental costs and are consequently subject to change. As of January 2006, the annual fee is $220 for new members, which includes the cost of the 'New Member Kit'. (Refer to Becoming a Member for up-to-date details).
What is
the Duration of the Educational Program?
The Toastmaster program is not a course you take and get a diploma. The
initial 'Communication & Leadership' manual is the basis
for subsequent speech assignments specializing storytelling, management,
humour, sales presentation, interpretive reading, etc. You decide how
slowly or quickly you want to proceed and in what area you want to further
your speaking skills.
Attendance is voluntary. Many of our members cannot attend each meeting. However, consist ant attendance adds to the learning experience. The more you participate not just in giving speeches but also other functions, the greater the benefit you will receive.
Guests are always welcome. We provide a friendly and supportive atmosphere that will build your confidence and improve your speaking and leadership skills. For those that request it, we also provide volunteer mentors to get you acquainted with the program. However, after three visits as a guest, we expect you to have made up your mind as to whether our club is the right one for you. (Refer to Becoming a Member for further details).
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