Aim High with the Annual Smedley Award

We are thrilled to remind you of an enduring tradition that brings excitement and growth to our clubs every year – the Smedley Award!

Named in honor of Ralph Smedley, the founder of Toastmasters International, this prestigious award celebrates clubs that excel in membership growth and engagement. Here’s how you can achieve this esteemed recognition for your club:

Smedley Award: Add 5 New, Dual, or Reinstated Members

Can your club add five new, dual, or reinstated members with a join date between August 1 and September 30? Achieving this goal not only strengthens our community but also brings you fantastic rewards:

Smedley Award Ribbon: Earn a distinguished ribbon to display on your club’s banner, showcasing your club’s dedication and success.
10% Discount at the Toastmasters International Store: Qualifying clubs will receive a special discount code for 10% off their next club order. This is a fantastic way to save on resources that will further enhance your club’s activities and events.

How to Achieve the Smedley Award

To help your club reach this milestone, here are some effective strategies:

1. Host Open Houses and Special Events

Organize open houses or special events to attract potential new members. Showcase the benefits of joining Toastmasters and the supportive community we offer.

2. Leverage Social Media and Marketing

Use social media platforms and other marketing tools to spread the word about your club. Highlight success stories, member achievements, and the unique opportunities your club provides.

3. Engage Current Members

Encourage current members to invite friends, family, and colleagues. Personal invitations can make a significant impact and bring in new faces.

4. Follow Up with Guests

Make sure to follow up with guests who attend your meetings or events. A friendly reminder and a warm invitation can convert visitors into members.

5. Reach Out to Former Members

Reconnect with former members and invite them to rejoin. Highlight the new opportunities and benefits that have been introduced since they left. Personal outreach can reignite their interest and remind them of the value of being part of our community.

Start Today!

The Smedley Award challenge runs annually from August 1 to September 30. Start planning your strategies now and watch your club flourish. Remember, adding five new, dual, or reinstated members not only earns you the Smedley Award ribbon but also a valuable discount at the Toastmasters International Store.

Let’s come together to grow our clubs and achieve this honor. With enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork, we can make this membership drive a resounding success. Aim high, reach out, and let’s earn the Smedley Award together!