Toastmasters International, Inc.

Toastmasters International, Inc. is a US-based nonprofit educational organization that operates worldwide, focusing on developing public speaking, communication, and leadership skills.

History

The concept of Toastmasters International began with Ralph C. Smedley, who in 1905 initiated a speaking club at the YMCA in Bloomington, Illinois. However, these early clubs disbanded when Smedley moved for job opportunities. The first permanent Toastmasters club was established on October 22, 1924, in Santa Ana, California, marking the official foundation of what would become Toastmasters International. In 1932, the organization was incorporated as a nonprofit, adopting the name Toastmasters International.

In 1932, the first international chapter was chartered in Vancouver, Canada, marking the beginning of its global expansion. The organization began admitting women in 1973, further diversifying its membership.

Organization Structure

Toastmasters International operates through local clubs, with an average membership of around 20 to 30 individuals per club. Meetings are typically held weekly or biweekly and involve various roles, such as prepared speeches, impromptu Table Topics, and feedback sessions. Each club functions independently while adhering to Toastmasters' guidelines to maintain official status.

Education Programs

Toastmasters offers structured programs designed to enhance members' public speaking and leadership abilities. The current education system, known as Pathways, includes eleven unique paths aligned with skills such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, and strategic leadership. Each path consists of 14 projects and is supported by online and print materials. Additionally, Toastmasters provides Speechcraft, a program for non-members to develop speaking skills.

Membership and Reach

As of 2020, Toastmasters International had approximately 364,000 members across its global network. The organization supports over 13,000 clubs in about 116 countries, making it a leading platform for public speaking and leadership development worldwide.

Mission and Purpose

The primary mission of Toastmasters International is to help individuals improve their communication and leadership skills in a supportive, community-based environment. Through its programs and club structure, Toastmasters empowers members to confidently express themselves and inspire others.

Legal Information

• Legal Status: Non-profit organization
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): 426099472

Key Facts

• Year Established: 1924
• Membership Base: Approximately 364,000 members as of 2020
• Global Presence: Over 13,000 clubs in about 116 countries