This site will be a place to compile resources to support Toastmasters clubs in prisons. There are a few key elements involved in supporting Toastmasters clubs inside correctional institutions. These include

• ensuring that the members in the club are able to make use of the Toastmasters educational material,
• mentoring members within the club,
• ensuring that the club is able to work effectively within the rules of the Department of Corrections (DOC),
• ensuring that the club is able to meet Toastmasters requirements,
• helping members be prepared to change their lives when they are released.

What are some common issues faced by the members of Toastmasters clubs in prisons?

• Finances – Toastmasters membership requires payment of dues, and often those who are incarcerated are unable to pay the dues themselves.
• Educational Materials – Toastmasters International educational program materials are designed to be accessed online, and as a general rule incarcerated individuals are not allowed use of the internet to access material online.
• Meetings – In most correctional institutions, groups are required to have outside volunteers present in order to hold a meeting.
• Turnover – Many correctional institutions have a high rate of turnover, which limits the ability of clubs to maintain long term continuity.
• Transition – When leaving prison, individuals face a barrage of issues and challenges that make it difficult to continue participating in a voluntary program such as Toastmasters.

To meet these needs, resources will be developed on this site. As resources are developed and posted, pages and posts will be added with links from here.