What to expect when you visit . . .

You will be greeted by our friendly members and asked to sign our Guest Book.  You will also receive a Guest Package if it is your first time to Unity Toastmasters.  This package contains the information you need to become a member including an application form and the pro-rated fee schedule.

Listen actively, ask questions and enjoy the meeting!  If you wish, you can participate in Table Topics. At the conclusion of the meeting you will be invited to share your feelings about what you experienced.  We welcome your feedback and more importantly the opportunity to answer your questions and assist you in making the decision whether Unity Toastmasters is right for you.

*Guests who choose to visit more than once will be interviewed by an Executive Member upon their 3rd visit regarding their membership intentions.

Below is some information about the various meeting roles and the club fee schedule for new members.

Meeting Role Descriptions

Toastmaster - the duty of the Toastmaster is to act as a genial host and conduct the entire program, including introducing participants.  Program participants should be introduced in a way that excites the audience and motivates them to listen.  The Toastmaster creates an atmosphere of interest and receptivity.

Table Topics Master - the Toastmasters program has a tradition - every member speaks at a meeting. The Table Topics session is that portion of the meeting which insures this tradition.  The purpose of this period is to have members "think on their feet" and speak for a minute or two.

General Evaluator - the General Evaluator or GE, is just what the name implies - an evaluator of everything that takes place throughout the meeting. The GE is responsible for the evaluation team which consists of the Timer, Grammarian and Ah-counter.  Each major speaker has a speech Evaluator assigned to them.

Grammarian - this is truly an exercise in expanding your listening skills.  They have two basic responsibilities: first to introduce new words to members; and second, to comment on the use of English during the meeting.

Ah-counter - their purpose is to listen carefully and note words and sounds used as "crutch" or "pause fillers" during the meeting.  Words such as "and, well, you know, so, etc." and sounds like "um, ah, er, and uh, etc."

Speakers - a major portion of each meeting is centred around three or more speakers.  Their speeches are based on manual project objectives from the Competent Communication or Advanced Communication Program Manuals.  Preparation is essential to success when you are the speaker.

Evaluator - every prepared speech receives an evaluation.  In addition to an oral evaluation and a written one.  The purpose of the evaluation is to help the speaker become less self-conscious and a better speaker by receiving positive, constructive feedback.

Semiannual Pro-rated Fee Schedule for New Membership
(Effective September 1, 2009)

Renewals are every 6 months in March and September for the subsequent 6 month period.