Do I need prior public speaking experience to join?

No experience is necessary; we welcome speakers of all skill levels.

What benefits will I gain by joining?

You’ll improve your communication, leadership skills, and confidence in a friendly setting.

Are guests required to speak right away?

Toastmasters is a self paced program. There are opportunities at our meetings for guests to participate if they would like, but it is not at all required. Guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the program.

Can guests attend a meeting before joining?

Absolutely! Guests are welcome to visit as often as they like before joining. Membership is required to sign up for roles and speeches.

What Will I Learn?

Toastmasters helps you build practical communication skills through short speeches, evaluations, and real‑world speaking opportunities. Members improve in areas like job interviews, giving a toast, choosing speech topics, and understanding their audience.
If you’d like a quick preview, we also have a small collection of free public speaking resources.

Who Leads the club?

Our club is run by a team of volunteer officers who keep meetings running smoothly and support every member’s growth. The President guides the club overall, while the VP of Education plans meetings and helps members progress. The VP of Membership welcomes guests and supports member retention, and the VP of Public Relations handles communication and outreach. Behind the scenes, the Secretary manages records, the Treasurer oversees finances, and the Sergeant at Arms sets up the room and ensures meetings start on the right foot.

(2025–2026 officers: President – Matt Alfonso, VPE – Rich Melcher, VPM – Shane Elliott, VPPR – Alexandra Hartline, Secretary – Belinda Bagnal, Treasurer – Andy Robbins, Sergeant at Arms – Nicole Trojanowski)

How Much Does It Cost to Join Port City Toastmasters?

Guests are welcome to visit any meeting before joining. When you’re ready, our officers will walk you through the simple application process. New members pay a one‑time enrollment fee plus prorated dues based on the month you join. Your initial payment includes Toastmasters International dues, club dues, full access to the Pathways education program, and a subscription to Toastmasters magazine.

Returning Toastmasters do not pay the new‑member fee. Existing members renew every April and October for $72.

Prorated Dues for New Members
Month Joined Total
Apr. or Oct. $102.00
May or Nov. $90.00
June or Dec. $78.00
July or Jan. $66.00
Aug. or Feb. $54.00
Sept. or Mar. $42.00

Additional Notes
Members with previous Toastmasters experience do not pay the new‑member fee.
Checks should be made payable to Port City Toastmasters.
Every new member is paired with a mentor to help them get started and grow at their own pace.
For questions about joining, reach out to our VP of Membership or President.