In our membership survey, members of AIGA San Francisco expressed interest in developing their public speaking and presentation skills. AIGASF is partnering with the “Toastmodernists,” a Toastmasters group comprised of employees of the SFMOMA and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. It meets regularly on each Thursday, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM, either at the SFMOMA or YBCA. They are currently looking for 12-15 new members to join their group and have extended an invitation to AIGA SF members.
 
From a humble beginning in 1924 at the YMCA in Santa Ana, California, Toastmasters International has grown to become a world leader in helping people become more competent and comfortable in front of an audience. The nonprofit organization now has nearly 250,000 members in more than 12,500 clubs in 106 countries, offering a proven – and enjoyable! – way to practice and hone communication and leadership skills.
 
Most Toastmasters meetings are comprised of approximately 20 people who meet weekly for an hour. Participants practice and learn skills by filling a meeting role, ranging from giving a prepared speech or an impromptu one to serving as timer, evaluator or grammarian. There is no instructor; instead, each speech and meeting is critiqued by a member in a positive manner, focusing on what was done right and what could be improved. 
 
The first step is to attend a meeting as a guest and see if it is right for you.
 
Please contact:
Beth Cook, Public Relations Associate
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
415.357.4179
bcook
 
Each group has a different personality – you may wish to visit more than one. 
 
After you attend a meeting, you can apply for membership. At the meeting, you may ask for a membership application. Membership is affordable: $20 new member fee; $27 dues every six months. The club officer will send your application and fees to Toastmasters’ World Headquarters.

2 Comments

On 1 Dec 2009 @ 2:42pm, 2:42pm Susan Schott Karr wrote:

I am interested in attending your meetings and potentially joining your group.

On 1 Dec 2009 @ 3:11pm, 3:11pm Don Savoie wrote:

Susan-

That’s great. Please contact Beth Cook, referenced above, to attend a meeting.