Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 at the YMCA in Santa Ana, California. Now located in over 100 countries, Toastmasters helps people improve their public speaking skills, self-confidence and communication abilities. Local groups meet for weekly sessions during which members give speeches. There are no instructors present during Toastmasters meetings; instead, members give evaluative feedback to each other.
If you are 18 or older you are eligible to join a local Toastmasters group by first attending a meeting and then completing an application. If there is no local group in your area you also have the option of starting one. Famous Toastmasters members include Debbi Field of Mrs. Fields cookies and Linda Lingle, the Governor of Hawaii.
