Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How can Toastmasters help me?
  2. What do our members do to with their newfound skills?
  3. What kind of personality does Speak Up and Out have?
  4. I'd like to attend a meeting as a guest. Do I need to let anyone know ahead of time?
  5. Can I attend more than once as a guest?
  6. What happens in Speak Up and Out meetings?
  7. How do I become a member?
  8. Do I have to be GLBT to join Speak Up and Out?
  9. How much does membership cost?
How can Toastmasters help me?
Your participation in Toastmasters can help you gain the skills and confidence to do more in your life and in your career. Speak Up and Out members work to improve their communication and leadership abilities every day, in their homes, in their workplaces, and in their communities. Our members are making a difference.
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What do our members do to with their newfound skills?
  • Lead and participate in meetings
  • Give presentations
  • Communicate more easily with anyone
  • Give and receive constructive feedback
  • Participate in Toastmasters speech contests and win awards
What are your goals in life? Do you want to present your great new idea at work? Do you want to serve on the board of your favorite nonprofit organization? Do you want to convince your community leaders that the uncontrolled intersection near your home needs stop signs? If you want to make a difference, Toastmasters is for you!
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What kind of personality does Speak Up and Out have?
We are a very fun club that strives to create and maintain a postive and supportive atmosphere for each member. We genuinely like each other and hope to welcome as many new faces into our group as possible. We work hard to help each individual member meet their personal goals, while they help us. (Hint, it doesn't feel like it, but this is where the leadership development starts!)
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I'd like to attend a meeting as a guest. Do I need to let anyone know ahead of time?
We welcome guests to our meetings. There is no need to let us know ahead of time. However, if you'd like to speak with one of our members before you attend, you can send us an e-mail at contact@speakupandout.org.
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Can I attend more than once as a guest?
Yes. You may attend as a guest as many times as you want. (Our record is ten years - he is a member and officer now!)
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What happens in Speak Up and Out meetings?
At a meeting, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere. Our members usually gather a few minutes early to socialize before the meeting starts. We will happily meet you and introduce ourselves. Then we will pair you up with a member to sit next to in case you have questions during the meeting.

During the meeting we will have Table Topics to improve members' impromptu speaking skills and ability to think on their feet. Next, we usually have one or two speakers give prepared speeches that last about 5-10 minutes each depending on the speech assignment. As our club has a variety of both speaking levels and time spent in Toastmasters, we have a very wide assortment of speeches, topics, and types of projects. After the speeches a person assigned to each speaker gives an evaluation pointing out strong points and offering a few suggestions for future improvement. During the business section, we'll make any needed announcements and have officer reports. Before the close of the meeting we'll ask for member announcements and you will be given an opportunity to speak. You may certainly decline if you are uncomfortable, but we welcome your input.

Please see our agenda for a taste of how our meetings run.
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How do I become a member?
See our club's VP Membership, Darr, or any other club officer to get a new member form. To become a member, simply complete the form and pay the Toastmasters International and Speak Up and Out Club dues and fees.
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Do I have to be GLBT to join Speak Up and Out?
NO! We are an open and welcoming community group that does not discriminate against anyone for any reason. All we ask of you is to contribute to the friendly and safe atmosphere.
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How much does membership cost?
Toastmasters is an inexpensive way to work on your communication and leadership skills. Membership costs $42 each 6 months (April 1 and Oct.1). If you are new to Toastmasters, there is a one-time new member fee of $24. Fees are pro-rated according to what month you join.
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