Upon joining a Toastmasters Club, each new member receives a set of educational materials that includes the Basic Communication and Leadership Program manual. The manual contains a series of speech assignments that provide instruction and practice in the basic techniques of public speaking. When you are ready your first speech is called the "Ice Breaker" and consist of you telling about yourself. This is a good topic to start with because who knows more about you than you! Upon completing the manual, a Toastmaster will know how to organize and present a dynamic and effective speech. The learning experience doesn't end with the basic manual. Upon completion, a member enters the Advanced Communication and Leadership Program, which consists of twelve manuals,three of which must be completed, that are geared to specific career objectives.

Each member also receives The Toastmaster, a monthly magazine that offers the latest insights into speaking and leadership techniques. Members also may purchase other educational materials, including books and cassette albums. A complete list of these materials is found in the Toastmasters supply catalog or on the Toastmasters web site at www.toastmasters.org.

Have you ever paid $100 for a one-day seminar? You probably won't pay that for an entire year of Toastmasters. There is a $20 new-member fee, then $27 Toastmasters International dues plus $2 for the local club due every six months.