10 Steps to Charter a New Toastmasters Club

By Sree Gudreddi, AD F28 and

Leesa Thompson, PRM

Starting a Toastmasters club is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it requires planning, organization, and commitment. A recent success story comes from the newly chartered Cre-Art Toastmasters, which officially launched on January 14, 2025, after just three months of themed meetings.

Thanks to the vision of Alison Harris-Abott, who requested a club for creatives and artists, and the collaboration of Leesa Thompson, PRM, Sree Gudreddi, AD F28, and Eric Brucia, Calendar Master, this club followed these steps to turn their concept into a thriving community. Let their story inspire you to take the steps below and bring your own Toastmasters club to life.

1. Come Up with a Concept That Interests You and Others

Identify a theme or concept that resonates with potential members. Whether it’s professional development, public speaking for a specific industry, or a unique interest group (e.g., storytelling, humor, or leadership), your concept should inspire and attract people. Talk to colleagues, friends, and community members to gauge interest and refine your idea.

2. Assemble a Team of Mentors and Sponsors

Reach out to experienced Toastmasters who can mentor and guide your club’s development. Sponsors can help you navigate the chartering process and offer insights into club management. Engage with Toastmasters International early to ensure your plans align with their requirements.

3. Choose a Club Name and Club Type

Select a club name that reflects the theme or mission of your club. A creative and meaningful name can spark interest and communicate your club’s identity to potential members.

Decide on the type of club you want to create:

  • Community Club: Open to the general public and focused on personal development.
  • Corporate Club: Formed within a company, often emphasizing leadership and communication skills for employees.
  • Specialty Club: Focused on a niche or interest, such as storytelling, advanced speaking, or leadership development.
  • Advanced Club: For seasoned Toastmasters looking to up their skill to the nth degree

Your choice will shape your outreach strategy, the nature of your meetings, and your club’s overall structure.

4. Plan a Series of Themed Open House Meetings

Schedule a long list of meetings centered around your club’s theme. These open houses will give potential members a taste of what the club offers. For example:

  • Week 1: Introduction to Toastmasters and Your Club’s Theme
  • Week 2: How Toastmasters Builds Leaders
  • Week 3: Practicing Impromptu Speaking

Invite guest speakers who have expertise in subjects related to your club’s concept to add value and attract interest. Create a detailed agenda for each meeting, including speeches, table topics, and networking opportunities.

5. Produce Flyers for Each Meeting

Design professional flyers for each open house and include:

  • Meeting theme and date
  • Location (or virtual link)
  • Contact information

Distribute these flyers in person, online, and through community networks to maximize visibility.

6. Promote the Club Concept and Meetings

Write articles for your local Toastmasters district newsletter, social media, and websites. Highlight your club’s theme, its unique benefits, and how it meets members’ needs. Use engaging stories, testimonials, and visuals to create excitement. Share information through community forums, company bulletins, and other networks to broaden your reach.

7. Keep Track of Interested Individuals

Create an email list to track everyone who expresses interest or attends a meeting. Use this list to send updates, meeting reminders, and club-related news. This ensures you maintain momentum and stay connected with potential members.

8. Keep Asking Who Wants to Join as a Charter Member

Ask attendees, colleagues, and friends to join as charter members. Highlight the unique opportunity to be part of a founding team and shape the club’s culture.

9. Continue Planning and Hosting Themed Meetings Until You Reach 20 Potential Members

Consistency is key to maintaining interest and attracting more members. Regularly host themed meetings that reflect your club’s concept. Use feedback from attendees to refine the experience and ensure the meetings stay engaging and relevant. Promote these sessions widely to expand your reach and build momentum until you reach 20 committed members.

10. Charter the Club

Once you’ve gathered the required 20 members and completed the necessary paperwork, submit your application to Toastmasters International. Celebrate this milestone with a special charter ceremony and continue building momentum as an official club.

Starting and chartering a new club is a journey of dedication, creativity, and teamwork. You don’t have to do it alone! For personalized guidance and support, reach out to Jeff Young, Club Growth Director (CGD), and Leesa Thompson, Public Relations Manager (PRM). They are ready to help you with every step of the process, from planning and promotion to creating a thriving Toastmasters community. Together, let’s build new clubs that inspire and empower members for years to come!

Sree Gudreddi, AD F28

sgudreddi@gmail.com

Leesa Thompson, PRM

prm@d57tm.org