Gavel Clubs
Toastmasters education for
non-Toastmasters
Gavel
clubs are a way of providing Toastmasters’
self-improvement methods and materials to
people who may be ineligible for regular
membership due to age, inability to pay dues
or other circumstances. Gavel clubs provide
Toastmasters members and clubs with an
excellent opportunity for community service.
They can be found in high schools, colleges,
rehabilitation institutions, hospitals and
elsewhere.
How
Do Gavel Clubs Operate?
In many ways, Gavel clubs operate in the
same way ordinary Toastmasters clubs do.
They have the same club officer titles, use
the same communication track manuals and
follow similar club meeting protocols. Gavel
club members are not, however, referred to
as Toastmasters; they are called “Gaveliers.”
Gavel
clubs differ in that they have limited
access to the leadership track awards and
materials, cannot participate in
Toastmasters area and district speech
contests and do not enjoy many of the
privileges and benefits that come with full
membership in Toastmasters.
How
to Form a Gavel Club
To form a Gavel club, your group must meet
all of the criteria listed below.
Gavel Clubs:
- must not be composed of employed
adults;
- must not be eligible to charter as a
regular Toastmasters club;
- may include members who are under
18;
- must have the approval or
endorsement of its host institution;
- must use the program, methods,
procedures, materials and services of
Toastmasters International, whenever
possible; and
- must apply to Toastmasters
International for a Certificate of
Affiliation
