D50 After Dark Podcast
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Highlights
(0:00) Intro
(1:30) Why start a new Toastmasters club— focusing on organizational benefits
(2:43) Three main reasons to start clubs: personal growth, cultural change, skill development
(3:49) First step— contacting Toastmasters International or the district directly
(7:11) Paperwork requirements and $125 charter fee
(14:01) Demonstration meeting with experienced members
(17:37) Clubs can begin meeting before official charter with 20 members
(22:21) Call to action for members to identify potential new club opportunities
Summary
In this nuts-and-bolts discussion about starting new Toastmasters clubs, Mickey and Rhonda walk listeners through the entire process from initial contact to post-charter support. The conversation kicks off with Rhonda explaining how organizations can benefit from Toastmasters’ educational programs for developing speaking and leadership skills. Mickey chimes in with three compelling reasons to start a club: sharing the rewarding experience with others, stimulating positive organizational culture change, and gaining valuable skills through the club-building process itself.
When it comes to getting the ball rolling, interested parties can either reach out to Toastmasters International directly or, if they’re already members, contact their district’s Club Growth Director. The process involves jumping through a few hoops: completing seven forms, paying a $125 charter fee, and gathering 20 charter members. To help seal the deal, the district provides a demonstration team of experienced Toastmasters who put their best foot forward in showcasing what meetings look like.
The good news is clubs don’t have to wait until they hit the magic number of 20 members to get started. Once they submit their application and fee, they receive a club number and members can access Pathways (the educational program) right off the bat. As Rhonda puts it, “be patient” when building membership. The district team provides support every step of the way, from sponsors who help launch the club to mentors who stick around for six months post-charter to ensure the club gets off on the right foot.
The conversation wraps up with Rhonda throwing down the gauntlet, challenging district leaders and members to keep their eyes peeled for opportunities to start new clubs in their areas. Throughout the discussion, it’s clear that while starting a club takes some elbow grease, the district provides plenty of support to help new clubs cross the finish line.
For any questions or to accept the challenge, contact District 50 Club Growth at CGD@D50tm.org.
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