Speechcraft and Open Houses

Speechcraft

What Is Speechcraft?

Speechcraft is a short, structured communication workshop that gives non-members a hands-on introduction to Toastmasters. Over several focused sessions, participants learn the foundations of public speaking, receive feedback from experienced members, and gain the confidence to deliver their first speeches.

For clubs, Speechcraft is one of the most effective ways to:

• Generate high-quality guest interest

• Showcase Toastmasters in a clear, engaging format

• Convert participants into new, long-term members

• Strengthen mentorship and leadership within the club
  
  

Running Speechcraft is an excellent strategy for rebuilding membership and reaching new audiences in 2025–2026.

🌟 Funding Support for Clubs

To encourage more clubs to use this powerful program, District 76 is offering:

• USD $50 reimbursement for one Speechcraft Digital Bundle per club

• Eligible for Speechcraft programs conducted between July 2025 and June 2026
  
  

This support helps make Speechcraft accessible and affordable for all clubs.

📝 Reimbursement Requirements

To claim the $50 support:

1. Provide evidence of the Speechcraft bundle purchase

2. Submit the details of the Speechcraft using the official reporting form

(The form will be shared after you contact the support team.)

📩 How to Apply / Request Assistance

If your club has conducted a Speechcraft
—or—
is planning to run one,

please email:

d76-speechcraftsupport@toastmasters-japan.org

You will receive the reimbursement form and guidance from the District Speechcraft Support Team.

Open House

Open Houses, together with Speechcraft programs, are powerful ways for clubs to welcome guests and attract new members.
To support these efforts, District 76 will provide up to 5,000 JPY per Area to cover venue fees only for hosting an Open House.

FAQ

1. What if only one club in the Area is interested?

If only one club wishes to host an Open House, the Area Director should hold an Area Council meeting with all clubs in the Area.
If the council agrees, the full 5,000 JPY venue-fee budget may be used by that single club.

However, to ensure the budget benefits as many clubs as possible — and to strengthen collaboration within the Area — we recommend hosting a joint Open House whenever possible.

2. Can we host multiple Open Houses?

Yes.
As long as the total venue fees remain within the 5,000 JPY Area budget, multiple Open Houses can be organized.
Area Directors are encouraged to work with clubs to allocate the budget in a way that maximizes membership impact.

3. What evidence is required to claim the costs?

Please provide the venue’s official receipt so the District can process the reimbursement.

Reference

For tips and best practices on running successful Open Houses, please refer to the Toastmasters Magazine article:
🔗 Open Houses: Your Club’s Front Door
https://www.toastmasters.org/magazine/magazine-issues/2023/mar/open-houses

If you have any questions, please contact:
Stefano Spillo (Club Growth Director, District 76)
📧 Stefano Spillo <stefano.spillo@toastmasters-japan.org>