Looking for a lunchtime meeting in the Twin Cities area?

What Exactly is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters is the world's largest organization devoted to developing communication skills. It now has some 200,000 members in 10,000 Toastmasters clubs in about 80 countries. In the Twin Cities and surrounding metro area, there are over 200 clubs! Toastmasters was established in October 1924 by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley in the basement of a YMCA in Santa Ana, California. Dr. Smedley formed the club “to afford practice and training in the art of public speaking and in presiding over meetings, and to promote sociability and good fellowship among its members.” Once a speaking club in Canada expressed interest, Toastmasters became known as Toastmasters International.

Discovery Toastmasters Club Mission and Vision

The mission of a Toastmasters Club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth.

Our club vision is self-discovery and development, through inspiration, education, and entertainment.

We Really Are About More Than Public Speaking!

Do you have an image in your mind of what Toastmasters is about? We are not just about public speaking. How relaxed and confident were you at your last job interview? How easily did the words come to you when you were called on in that night class? Do you dread being the one who has to set up lunch reservations? Do people make excuses not to join your meetings or presentations? Would you really like to let them know what you think at your next City Planning meeting? Would you just like to improve your self-confidence and learn how to think on your feet?

Come see what our club is all about. We are all there to improve our communication and leadership skills, but we always make sure to have fun at the same time. Our meeting atmosphere is warm and inviting. Whether your goal is just to make it through your next presentation, to become a keynote speaker, run for a public office, or anything in between – we are sure you will find Toastmasters an excellent fit.

There is never a cost to check out a meeting! Visitors are always welcome. Bring a friend, family member or colleague to join you for a lunchtime meeting. Having someone you know there for support will make your communication and leadership goals even easier to reach! Don’t forget our club members are there for you as well.

Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when giving presentations and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others. Through active participation in the Communication and Leadership Program, you will learn to:

·         Effectively speak

·         Conduct a meeting

·         Present with visual aids

·         Speak impromptu

·         Lead people and processes

·         Delegate

·         Motivate and persuade

·         Effectively listen

As you learn and refine these valuable skills, your self-confidence will shine through, and recognition and promotion will follow. Perhaps you are thinking you don’t plan to manage or lead others. Regardless, these are skills everyone can benefit from. You will learn to be a better and more effective communicator at home, school, church, or in just about any other social situation.